September 17, 2025 | 10:04 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Intestinal parasites are organisms that live inside the intestines, including worms and protozoa. According to the Cleveland Clinic website, as parasites, these organisms live off another living being called a host. Parasites fully utilize the host's body to obtain nutrients and as a shelter.
Not only that, the host's body also serves as a means for parasites to move, reproduce, and spread to the next host. The presence of intestinal parasites does not provide any benefits. On the contrary, they can cause various unpleasant symptoms and in some cases may pose serious health risks.
According to the Healthline health portal, after the parasite enters the body, it will move to the intestines to grow and reproduce. Common symptoms will only appear when the number and size of parasites have increased significantly. Some common complaints include stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, bloating, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. In certain cases, the individual may experience dysentery, an intestinal infection that causes bloody and mucus-filled diarrhea.
Other symptoms that may arise are rashes or itching in the area around the anus or vulva. Sometimes, the affected individual may even find worms coming out with their feces when having a bowel movement. However, some people may have intestinal parasites in their bodies for years without experiencing any symptoms at all.
Furthermore, Healthline also explains that an infection of intestinal worms can increase the risk of anemia, intestinal blockage, and malnutrition. These complications are more likely to occur in the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Intestinal worm infections also pose a higher risk for pregnant women. If a pregnant woman is diagnosed with this infection, the doctor will prescribe safe antiparasitic drugs for consumption during pregnancy. Moreover, the doctor will carefully monitor the patient's condition during the treatment period.
Preventing Intestinal Parasites
According to the Verywell Health health portal, several practical steps are suggested to reduce the risk of intestinal parasite infections.
- Always wash hands thoroughly with soap, especially after touching the ground and before eating. Make sure to clean under the nails as well.
- Wash, peel, and cook all fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked beef or pork.
- Do not drink or swim in potentially contaminated water sources such as lakes and rivers.
- When in areas with questionable water quality, avoid tap water, ice, and raw food washed with such water.
- If in doubt about water cleanliness, boil water for 1-3 minutes and let it cool before drinking to kill parasites.
- Always wear shoes when engaging in outdoor activities to prevent worms (such as hookworms) from entering through the skin.
- Always consult with a doctor before trying alternative treatments, herbs, or supplements to address parasites.
Editor's Choice: Roundworms: Parasites That Attack Human Intestines
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