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Posted on November 22, 2008 by Pearle Tsuji | Posted under Diseases
Human Tapeworms: Causes And Remedies
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The cause of the appearance of tapeworms in humans has something to do with the fact that over ten thousand years ago, humans discovered how to domesticate animals like pigs and cattle, and took the parasites from them. This was the first assumption, but other discoveries show that it was even earlier in human history that tapeworms got into our systems. Tapeworms have been identified in African carnivores, which, for sure, were hunted for game meat. While hyenas and felines began eating meat infested with parasites, humans got infested as well. Not only hunting, but scavenging, too, brought the parasites inside the human body. So far, scientists can link tapeworm infestation with humans about 1.7 million years ago history. A few facts on tapeworms Tapeworms cannot exist without a host. A living being is needed in order for them to complete their life cycle. Some of the tapeworms that infest animals, can infest humans as well, and among them, we find Echinococcus granulosus, Taenia saginata, Hymenolepsis nana, Diphyllobothrium latum, Taenia solium, and the dwarf tapeworm. The Taenia saginata, or beef tapeworm, is very widespread in North America. The Taenia solium, the pork tapeworm, is more widespread in Latin America. The Diphyllobothrium latum, also named the fish tapeworm, exists mainly in Asia. A tapeworm is usually composed of a head, a neck and many segments named proglottids. The creature gets stuck in the intestines with a set of hooks attached to the head. It feeds the body that is filled with eggs. The proglottids detach from the body and they travel through the intestines. Tapeworms can be found in many creatures, like fish, dogs, cats, pigs and humans. They live on the digested food in the intestinal tract, when they are detached from it. Reproduction The eggs will transform into embryos that are then released from the body through bowel movement. When they reach a source of water, they are ready to infest other creatures. Hygiene is important to prevent tapeworms infestation. Drinking water from unreliable sources, eating meat from infested animals, or getting in contact with contaminated feces, are ways to get infested. An embryo that is ingested is very dangerous because it can cause an infection named cysticercosis that is hard to discover. When the infection reaches the central nervous system, it can lead to death. The embryos do not grow in the host, but it gets into the blood stream and from there to muscles and organs of the host. When it reaches a safe place for them, the embryo forms a sac in which it will remain dormant until it gets into another creature that eats the flesh of the animal that was infested. Symptoms and diagnosis The symptoms associated with tapeworm infestation are many times mistaken for other ailments, like an upset stomach, or stress. They are so hard to notice that you may not know that you are infested with tapeworms, until segments from them appear in the stool, which is a clear sign. Here is a list of symptoms of tapeworms infestation: - constipation; - diarrhea; - stomach pains; - segments of headless worms in the feces. If you are aware of these symptoms and you reach the conclusion that you are infested, a visit to the doctor will settle things. They will know how to diagnose the infestation and establish which organ is affected. You should not worry too much, though, as most infestations are cured. Cures Tapeworms can be eliminated from the intestines, through medication or natural supplements. Colon cleansing is a good method to get the nasty creatures out of your system. Medication based on niclosamide or quinacrine hydrochloride is very helpful, as well. Do not take medication without medical supervision, as these drugs can determine side effects. The best cure: prevention The best way to get rid of tapeworms is to stay away from them altogether. This means that you must avoid eating rare meat, as these worms are killed when the meat is cooked. Always wash your hands with water and soap after using the bathroom. As contaminated water is the most widespread source of tapeworm infestation, take care of your water sources. It is this simple: just take care of what you eat, of what you drink and of hand hygiene and you will be protected. About The Author: Visit www.articleclick.com for additional article contributions by Pearle Tsuji. |
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