Tapeworm

 What are tapeworms?

Tapeworms are flat, segmented and long parasite worms that cannot live freely without a host. They usually live in their hosts' intestines, and can be dangerous in circumstances, because they can block organs or small ducts from sending out bodily fluids, which can cause blockages or infections. They attach to stomach walls and survive from the body supplies. Other than that, they can travel to other places, like liver, eyes, heart... and can cause damage to them. However, don't be worried, only 1000 people in the U.S. gets it every year, and in a 13 year study, only 221 people died from tapeworms. These deaths are called Neurocysticercosis, and are caused by highly invasive pork tapeworms. Other than that, most hosts don't have symptoms from it.

Symptoms:

- Sudden weight loss

- Sudden loss of appetite

- Diarrhea

- Nausea

- Abdomen pain

- Dizziness

- Fatigue

Transmission:

Tapeworms are usually transmitted through contaminated water, food or fleas. Usually, the worms lay eggs in there. The worm will then grow in the intestines. Well how do they overcome the stomach acid? The stomach acid actually breaks down the shell of the larvae, freeing the worms from their shells. These worms also have special mechanisms to protect themselves from stomach enzymes and acids.

Treatments:

Tapeworms are usually treated with medicine which paralyzes them and lets you poop it out. It works on most patients.

Prevention:

- Cook and wash your food thoroughly

- Avoid eating raw meat or fish

- Wash your hands before and after cooking and eating