Threadworms are small white worms that mainly cause itching around the anus or vulva at night and often spread within families and schools. They are usually harmless and treatable, but severe abdominal pain, fever, bleeding, weight loss or another type of worm needs a different medical assessment.
- Intense itching around the anus, particularly in the evening and at night.
- Small moving white threads in stool, underwear, bedding or around the anus.
- Wash hands with soap after using the toilet, changing nappies and before eating, and keep nails short and clean.
- Shower in the morning and put on clean underwear to wash away eggs laid overnight.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice if you are uncertain of the diagnosis or cannot see typical white threads.
- For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.
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General information, not personal medical advice
This article has been carefully prepared but may contain errors or become outdated as medical knowledge changes. It does not replace diagnosis, examination or treatment by your own GP. Always discuss personal questions and starting, stopping or changing medicines or treatments with your own GP.
For a life-threatening situation, call Ambulance 912. For urgent care outside office hours, call HAP 9252.
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