ClassX Video Lessons What causes Hookworm?। Intestinal Worms Symptoms and Treatment | Worm Infection | Dr. Binocs Show
Hookworms are tiny creatures that live in your intestines. They have long, thin bodies and mouths shaped like hooks. There are two main types that can make people sick: Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. These hookworms like warm and wet places, so they are often found in parts of America, Africa, and Asia. Even though they are small, they can cause big problems if they get inside your body.
The story of how hookworms get into your body starts when someone who is already infected goes to the bathroom outside. Their poop has hookworm eggs in it. In warm and wet soil, these eggs hatch into tiny larvae. If you walk barefoot on this soil, the larvae can sneak into your skin.
Once inside, the larvae travel through your blood to your lungs. You might cough them up and swallow them without even knowing it! Then, they end up in your small intestine, where they grow into adult hookworms and attach themselves to your gut.
If you have hookworms, you might feel:
In serious cases, hookworms can cause anemia, which means you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells. This can make you feel very tired and weak. Kids with hookworms might not grow or learn as well as they should.
If you think you might have hookworms, it’s important to see a doctor. They can check your poop under a microscope to see if there are any hookworms. If you do have them, the doctor will give you medicine to get rid of the worms. You might also need to take iron supplements if you have anemia.
Usually, just one round of medicine is enough to make you feel better.
Stopping hookworms before they start is the best plan! Here are some tips:
Knowing about hookworms helps you stay safe from them. By learning how they work and taking steps to prevent them, you can keep yourself and your family healthy. Remember to wear shoes and be careful where you walk to avoid these tiny troublemakers!
Make a Hookworm Model: Use clay or playdough to create a model of a hookworm. Think about its long, thin body and hook-shaped mouth. Once you’ve made your model, explain to a friend or family member how hookworms enter the body and what they do once inside. This will help you remember the journey of the hookworm and how to prevent it.
Soil Exploration Activity: With the help of an adult, collect a small sample of soil from your garden or a park. Use a magnifying glass to observe the soil closely. Discuss with your adult helper why it’s important to wear shoes when walking on soil, especially in areas where hookworms might be present. Can you think of other tiny creatures that might live in the soil?
Prevention Poster: Create a colorful poster that shows ways to prevent hookworm infections. Include tips like wearing shoes and avoiding skin-to-soil contact. Hang your poster in a place where your family can see it and learn from it. Think about how you can make your poster eye-catching and informative!
