Pinworm infections are among the most prevalent intestinal worm infections in adults and especially children around the world. The worst part is that they can spread at a fast rate.
Check out how to get rid of pinworms overnight naturally. Additionally, find some other frequently asked questions about pinworm infections in this health blog.
“Pinworm infections are very common, affecting approximately 1 billion people worldwide.” -Cleveland Clinic
What are Pinworms?
Pinworms, sometimes known as threadworms, are small, white or light grey worms that are a prevalent cause of enterobiasis. The pinworm infection is more common in children than in adults.
According to research on Enterobius Vermicularis, pinworms are white, slender worms with a size range of 2 to 5 millimetres for males and 8 to 13 millimetres for females.
How can Pinworms enter our Bodies?
Pinworms can cause infections when they get inside the body. It can happen in the following ways:
- The mouth: By swallowing infectious pinworm eggs that are on fingers, beneath fingernails, on clothes, bedding, and other contaminated items and surfaces, people get sick, typically unwittingly.
- The anus: Pinworms that are adult females enter the colon at night and leave the body through the anus. They return to the colon after laying their eggs in the skin folds surrounding the anus. These eggs frequently cause discomfort and itching.
- The Air: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is also possible to inhale eggs that are in the air. Shaking infected bedding, towels, or clothing may cause this to occur.
Pinworm eggs can occasionally get airborne due to their tiny size and be inhaled through breathing.
What are the Symptoms of Pinworm Infections?
Some of the commonly reported symptoms of pinworm infections are:
- Itching around the anus: Pinworms surrounding the anus lay their eggs at night, creating irritation, which can cause anal itching, especially at night. Although anal symptoms are often modest, itching can be very bad.
- Itching near the Vagina: Vaginal discharge and itching in the vaginal region are additional symptoms that can occur in females.
- Difficulties falling asleep: Due to the fact that anal itching is more intense at night, pinworm infection patients may experience difficulty falling or staying asleep, which can impair focus, create fatigue, and cause weight loss.
If you have any of the symptoms of pinworm infections given above, it is highly recommended to see a doctor. Click here to see a doctor online via Marham.
How to Get Rid of Pinworms Overnight Naturally?
Here are some widely used and proven home remedies for how to get rid of pinworms overnight:
1. Coconut Oil for Pinworms
While coconut oil is not an effective treatment for pinworms, according to scientific research it is still a well-known natural treatment for pinworms. Many people think that putting the oil on the anal region will stop the female from depositing her eggs there.
To get rid of pinworms overnight naturally you can apply a spoonful of virgin coconut oil around your anal area and go to sleep. But, be sure that you are not allergic to the oil before applying.
2. Raw garlic
According to belief, garlic destroys any existing eggs and stops female pinworms from producing more. It can be used as a salve or as a mild dietary supplement. Dice up a clove of garlic and add it to spaghetti or toast if you want to eat it. Raw garlic is also edible on its own.
3. Papaya seeds
Papaya seeds have been shown in a study on rats to be effective in treating worm infestations due to their anthelmintic activity. However, no human research has demonstrated their efficacy.
You may consume papaya seeds to use this at-home treatment, either on their own or sweetened with honey.
4. Carrots
Two cups of raw, shredded carrots every day can assist your body force the pinworms through your intestines. This is because carrots’ high fibre content might enhance digestion and encourage bowel movement.
5. Turmeric
There are some resources that suggest that turmeric powder can be used to treat pinworms. You may brew turmeric tea by boiling one cup of hot water with a tiny bit of turmeric for five to ten minutes. Drink regularly to reap the rewards.
Also, read about Anal Itching-What To Expect?
What is the Medical Treatment for Pinworms?
Research that collected data on pinworms from PubMed articles between 1990 and 2019, reports that:
“In nearly all cases, anthelmintic treatment along with attention to hygienic measures can successfully eradicate pinworm infection and prevent recurrence and autoinfection.”
If you do not want to try a home remedy to get rid of pinworms, you can seek medical help which can be even better. Your doctor might use the following oral anti-parasitic drugs to treat your pinworm infection:
- Pyrantel pamoate
- Mebendazole
- Albendazole
How to Prevent Getting a Pinworm Infection?
Some preventive measures that you can take to avoid getting a pinworm infection are:
- Wash your hands often especially after coming home from outside, or eating
- Avoid biting your nails and keep your fingernails short
- Put on tight underclothes
- Clean your underpants in hot water
- Wash your bedsheets and blankets often
- Vacuum or mop the flooring every day
- Use hot water to wash all bed linens and clothing
The Bottom Line
So, now you know how to get rid of pinworms overnight. These natural treatments for pinworms can be beneficial, but they shouldn’t be used as the first line of defence.
Be cautious while attempting any home cures, especially if you have allergies. You can always consult with a doctor for expert opinion and fast treatment options.
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FAQs
Does Vaseline help with pinworms?
While Vaseline can not cure pinworm infections, lotions or ointments like Vaseline can help reduce the itching or irritation caused by pinworms. You can try this at-home remedy but only after consulting with a doctor.
Can you flush out pinworms?
Sometimes doctors recommend tap water enemas to flush out pinworms to prevent their further spread. It can be done using a simple water injection into the rectum that triggers a bowel movement.
How do you stop pinworms from itching at night?
You can try washing your anal area using lukewarm water with some soap, or apply any anti-fungal cream or ointment suggested to you by your doctor. Coconut oil might also reduce the symptoms of itching.