A Tapeworm in Humans Robs Its Hosts of Valuable Nutrients

Finding tapeworm species in humans is much more common than you might think. In fact, the instances of these infestations are becoming more frequent and because they are often asymptomatic, the afflicted may be unaware of the problem.  But human tapeworms are not to be ignored. This intestinal parasite, part of the Cestoda family, can live in your system for years, robbing your body of nutrients and making you sick. Nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, headaches, weakness, and loss of appetite are all possible effects of the tapeworm. In humans, if those side effects are ignored, tapeworms can invade muscles and organ tissue causing cysts and resulting diseases like Cysticercosis, Neurocysticercosis, and Alveolar Hydatid Disease (AHD). Fever, infections, and even neurological problems can result.

Now that the effects of the tapeworm in humans are clear, you may be wondering how they get there in the first place. Humans contract tapeworms from eating undercooked meats and fish or drinking contaminated water, where tapeworm larvae and eggs can live. Accidentally eating soil contaminated with feces can also lead to an infestation. This can happen if you eat after working in the yard, but don’t wash your hands. Once in your body, this segmented worm feeds on the nutrients meant for your body and begins to grow. Both male and female tapeworms produce eggs – thousands per day – and those eggs or egg-containing body segments are passed out of the body through feces. The cycle begins anew when the juvenile tapeworm is taken in by humans. 

While tapeworms are very easily contracted, they luckily aren’t deadly in most cases. Prevention is also possible with some care too. Cook your meat and fish thoroughly, wash your hands often, and always wash fresh fruits and vegetables.