Ascaris Lumbricoides:
Which Came First...The Worm or the Egg?

Living most of its life in the small intestine, Ascaris lumbricoides is the largest and one of the most common roundworms found in human intestines. Although many believe it can be “caught” from animals such as dogs and cats, it is almost exclusively found in human beings, although it is sometimes seen in pigs. Beginning its life as an egg, this worm is usually contracted via unwashed fruits or vegetables, dirty hands, or unfiltered water; however, it can also be inhaled.

After being ingested, the Ascaris lumbricoides eggs pass through the stomach and enter the first part of the small intestine. Once here, the eggs hatch. The larvae then burrow into the intestine until they reach blood vessels, and then they hitch a ride on the stream of blood flowing through the veins. Once they have passed through the liver and heart, Ascaris lumbricoides larvae then emerge and grow in the lungs of the infected person. The process until this point takes about nine days. Once in the lungs, the can be coughed up, and many are accidentally or unknowingly swallowed during this process. Those that are swallowed then return to the small intestine to mature and lay eggs, which are then released in the feces of the infected person to begin the cycle again.

If you think that you or someone you know may be infected, then you should consult your health professional immediately, as Ascaris lumbricoides can cause malnutrition, damage to internal organs, and even learning problems.