Tapeworms in Humans: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment Guide

Introduction

Tapeworms in humans are not among the commonly reported parasitic worm infections. However, general awareness is necessary for taking prompt action when suspecting such infestations. If you live in Australia and are curious to research what this infection is, possible causes, symptoms, how to get rid of tapeworms in humans, and more, this read is for you.

What Are Tapeworms in Humans?

Tapeworms in Humans are characterised by flat, ribbon-like parasites that affect the intestinal tract. In Australia and worldwide, people may get affected through eating raw/undercooked meat, fish, or pork. It can also be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or soil. Getting in touch with infected animals may cause a tapeworm infection, too. While the symptoms are mostly mild and unrecognised initially, they can cause severe digestive upset later and critically affect surrounding tissues and organs.

Causes of Tapeworm Infections

Be it in Australia or elsewhere in the world, tapeworm infections are usually caused by swallowing tapeworm eggs or larvae. It may happen when you eat raw/undercooked meat (pork or beef), freshwater fish, drink contaminated water, or follow poor hygiene practices. The affected person does not realise the infection in the early phase until discomfort grows. This infection can also pass through contaminated soil or animal faeces (specifically dwarf tapeworms).

Best Tapeworm Treatment Medicines in Humans

The following are the most-prescribed medicines for tapeworms in humans across Australia.

• Praziquantel 600 mg
• Albendazole 400 mg
• Niclosamide 500 Mg

Tapeworm Symptoms in Humans

As noted above, most affected individuals don’t initially show any Tapeworm symptoms. When they show up, the symptoms typically involve mild gastrointestinal upset. If not addressed promptly, the worms can migrate to the intestines and form cysts in other tissues (indicating a severe condition). In such critical cases, the symptoms vary according to the affected organ.

The possible tapeworm symptoms in humans are listed below.

Gastrointestinal symptoms (Common)

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dull stomach pain/cramps
• Stomach discomfort
• Changes in bowel habits
• Sudden & strong desires for salty foods
• Unexplained appetite/weight loss

Tissue/Larval infection symptoms (Severe)

• Painful lumps/swelling beneath the skin (when it affects muscles)
• Severe headache, confusion, dizziness, or seizures (when it affects the brain)
• Jaundice symptoms, breathing problems, or organ dysfunction (when it impacts the lungs or liver)

How to Get Rid of Tapeworms in Humans?

The physician shall suggest specific Meds for tapeworms in humans depending on the age, overall health, bodyweight, medical history, severity of infection, response to earlier doses, etc. In most cases, a short course with Praziquantel, Albendazole, or Niclosamide can effectively help in getting rid of tapeworm infections. These drugs work by paralysing or killing the worms, which ultimately forces them to detach from the intestinal lining. Once they die, the body naturally expels them via stools.

While these medicines help in clearing existing tapeworm infections regardless of the severity levels, it is important to follow a hygienic lifestyle to reduce reinfection risks.

Long-Term Effects and Complications

Tapeworms in Humans may cause negative effects in the long run or complicate health if larvae migrate outside the intestines. In severe cases like neurocysticercosis, patients may get seizures or brain swelling. If not treated for a prolonged duration, tapeworm infections cause life-threatening reactions. The possible complications are as follows.

• Muscular or subcutaneous cysts
• Visual impairment
• Vitamin B-12 deficiency
• Anaemia
• Gastrointestinal blockages
• Nutritional malabsorption
• Allergic reactions
• Altered immune response

Prevention of Tapeworm Infections

You can prevent tapeworms in humans through strict food safety and personal hygiene practices. These are the main tips to consider.

• Eat thoroughly washed and cooked meat.
• Freeze fish and meat hygienically to kill tapeworm larvae
• Wash fruits and vegetables properly, especially if you live in high-risk regions
• Boil raw water first and let it cool down completely before drinking, particularly during travel
• Wash hands more frequently
• Keep your surroundings clean
• Don’t get in contact with affected individuals
• Deworm pets as per scheduled intervals
• Dispose of pet waste properly

When to See a doctor?

See the doctor as soon as you suspect a tapeworm infection. Immediate medical attention is required for symptoms like high fever or abdominal pain. The physician will conduct stool tests to determine worm segments and suggest relevant tapeworm treatment. Seeking medical help promptly prevents severe complications like intestinal blockages or larval cysts spreading across the liver or brain.

Conclusion

Tapeworms in humans are relatively uncommon but a major health concern in Australia. The infection risk is higher among frequent travellers and people consuming undercooked meat or contaminated food. It is necessary to follow good hygiene practices, visit the physician right when suspecting parasitic infestation, and use the prescribed treatment appropriately. At the same time, it is important not to self-medicate with any available therapies because finding the ‘suitable’ one matters.

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FAQs on Tapeworms in Humans