Pinworms. One of the most uncomfortable infections your child can develop, and one of the most uncomfortable to talk about. Pinworms are small worm-like parasites that infect the intestines. Pinworm infections are contagious, and very common in young children, though adults can get pinworms as well.
Pinworms cause the anus to become extremely itchy, and this is the most common way it is discovered. If your child is saying they are very itchy on their bottom, check their underwear or the toilet after they use it for small white worms. They will look like pieces of white thread. However, it is rare to spot the parasites this way, and you are more likely to spot them by examining the anus itself. Pinworms tend to come out during the night, so check during this time.
While they are rarely harmful, they cause severe anal itching and are a skin irritant. One way to help your child’s doctor diagnose pinworms is to perform the tape test. At night, or early in the morning, take a piece of Scotch tape and put it on the skin around the anus. When it is pulled off, the worms can be seen on the piece of tape.
Pinworms are preventable, treatable, and rarely cause serious health issues. They are treated with an over-the-counter medication such as Reese’s Pinworm Medicine. Pinworms can be spread through physical contact, contaminated clothing, bed linens, toys, and even toilet seats. If you find out your child has pinworms, be sure to disinfect all of these items.
It is important to take your child to the doctor if you suspect pinworms. The doctor will rule out other possibilities such as perianal strep or poor hygiene leading to a rash. After it is diagnosed, the medication can be started. To prevent pinworm, teach hand-washing to your children, as it is most commonly spread when dirty hands touch the mouth.
Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care has 12 locations in Texas. We are happy to announce that we will be opening a location in New Braunfels this summer, located at 312 FM 306, New Braunfels TX, 78130
We are open from 9am–9pm Mon.-Fri., 9am-6pm on Sat., and 10am-6pm on Sun. For more information, please call 210.543.7334. We welcome walk-ins, accept most insurance plans and are proud to be accredited by the Urgent Care Association!
