What Is A Hookworm Infection? (Ancylostomiasis)



Microscopic view of a Hookworm egg.

What Is A Hookworm Infection?

Hookworm is an infection of one of two different 7 to 13 mm long roundworms (either Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus). If not treated, Hookworm infection can lead to abdominal pain and iron-deficiency. Approximately one-quarter of the world's population is infected with Hookworm.

How Do I Get A Hookworm Infection?

Hookworm eggs are passed in stool and infection results when a person comes in contact with the eggs from the contaminated soil or stool. The larvae enter through the skin and travel to the lungs through the blood. They climb up the lungs through the bronchi and trachea and then are swallowed. As the larvae pass into the digestive tract, they attach themselves to the wall of the small intestine. Here they mature into adult worms, mate and feed on the blood of the host. Adult hookworms may live up to ten years.

What Are The Symptoms Of Hookworm?

Most of the time a Hookworm infection does not show any symptoms. However, the lifecycle of Hookworm takes it from the skin to the blood, to the lungs and then, eventually, to the intestines; thus, there may be symptoms from the infection in any of these places. There may be a local irritation of the skin where the worm penetrated or even an itchy rash. In the lungs, there may be asthma-like symptoms or pneumonia. The most common symptoms of Hookworm infection, however, are from their residence in the intestine. Here, Hookworm can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, loss of appetite and excessive gases. In chronic infections, the patient may become anemic as the worms feed on the individual's blood. The loss of blood leads to a loss of iron and protein; causing difficulty in breathing, pale complexion, tiredness and weakness, fast heartbeat, generalized swelling or bloating and impotence. If the infection lasts a very long time or is very severe, there may be a slow growth, heart problems or even heart failure.

How Is Hookworm Diagnosed?

Looking for the eggs in a stool sample directly, with a microscope, can identify hookworm infection. A blood sample will also indicate if there is an iron or protein deficiency from the infection. It will also indicate how serious the infection has affected on the patient.

How Is Hookworm Treated?

Hookworm is generally treated with the drug mebendazole. This drug cures more than 99 percent of all cases of hookworm if given twice per day for three days. It kills both the worms and the eggs. This drug is contraindicated during pregnancy. Other drugs that may be given are albendazole and pyrantel, which are given once per day for three days. Since iron deficient anemia is a major problem with a Hookworm infection, taking iron supplements and eating a high protein diet can improve the person's recovery.

How Long Do The Effects Of Hookworm Last?

The effects of Hookworm will depend upon the duration and severity of the infection. The abdominal pain, diarrhea and gas usually resolve quickly with the elimination of the worms. Once the infection is cleared, body may need several weeks to a few months to build back up the protein, iron and vitamin levels that were lost due to the infection. As these are replenished, the weakness, tiredness, difficulty breathing, bloating or heart symptoms should gradually improve as well.

What Can Be Done To Prevent Hookworm?

Hookworm infection results because of non-hygienic practices and fecal contact in the soil; hence sanitation and sanitary practices are critical. Fecal matter should be chemically treated and disposed off without any human contact. Wearing shoes can prevent penetration of the worms into the skin of the feet. Water can also be a mechanism of exposure if it's contaminated. Therefore, limiting swimming and washing and any other contact with the water should be avoided until it's treated or boiled to kill the larvae.

How Can I Take Care Of Myself?

Hookworm infections should be dealt quickly and stringently. Known symptomatic infections should be treated rapidly along with asymptomatic family members or neighbors. Strict attention to cleanliness and sanitary practices is needed when a Hookworm infection detected so as to prevent it's spread. This means proper disposal of human waste, limiting skin contact with soil and water (not walking barefoot or swimming in areas where there is untreated sewage) and being diagnosed by a physician when symptoms are noted.

When Should I Call The Doctor?

Hookworm can be a very serious illness hence it's essential to be vigilant of any change in one's health status. Any difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, chest or abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, blood with coughing, asthma type symptoms, skin rash, swelling or bloating, dizziness, confusion, lightheadedness or weight loss should be brought immediate to your doctor's attention.

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