Parasites: The Ignored Epidemic Part 2

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This is a continuation of the  Parasites: The Ignored Epidemic series, if you haven’t checked out the previous episode or blog entry, please hop over there and give that a listen or add it to your queue:

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Pinworms Parasites

Pinworms are a prevalent parasite among the various multicellular pathogens we're discussing. Pinworms are quite common in the United States, especially among children, although their prevalence in other countries is something I'm uncertain about. We often associate pinworms with children, but I have my doubts about them being exclusive to children.

Modes of Transmission

Pinworms can be contracted through contaminated food, water, or even from an infected person. That's right – it can spread from one person to another. Here's something fascinating: the adult female pinworm actually leaves the anus to lay eggs. This means that children, unknowingly infected, can spread these worms to their entire family through everyday items like;

  • Bathtubs 

  • Toilet seats and

  • Bedclothes

I am certain it's not just a concern for children; some of my students have faced pinworm infections.

Symptoms and Appearance

One of the most classic symptoms of a pinworm infection is perianal itching. The name "pinworms" or "threadworms" comes from their thread-like appearance. What's alarming is that these seemingly harmless worms have been associated with a myriad of neurological and behavioral symptoms. In a ten-year study of over 2000 cases involving children with pinworms, researchers documented a surprising connection between the infection and various symptoms that weren't previously linked to it.

In that decade-long study, the researchers discovered a startling link between pinworm infections and a wide array of neurological and behavioral symptoms. These symptoms were previously not associated with pinworm infections, making it an intriguing area of study.

Roundworms Parasites 

The subject of roundworms is one close to my heart because I've seen a lot of these critters come out, and many others have witnessed the same. Ascaris lumbricoides is the technical name for these parasites. Believe it or not, it's estimated that approximately 1 billion people are infected with Ascaris, although in my opinion, it's likely much, much more than that.

Transmission and Travel in the Body

Ascaris looks like a typical earthworm and is spread directly to humans from soil or contaminated food. Once these worms find a home in the human body, they can pass through the liver and lungs. This journey often triggers severe tissue irritation and allergic reactions. The adult worms, fascinatingly, can travel throughout the body and end up almost anywhere, from the liver and heart to the lungs, and yes, even the brain. Some studies have even found them useful in treating MS patients.

Concerns and Symptoms

These roundworms can cause intestinal obstruction when present in significant numbers. If you're struggling with constipation or diarrhea, parasites could very well be the culprits. Specific symptoms of a roundworm infection include:

  • Nervousness

  • Colic

  • Poor appetite

  • Fatigue

  • Allergic reactions

  • Coughing

  • Wheezing and a plethora of other signs

Interestingly, food cravings and malnutrition are common as the worms compete with the host for food and hinder the absorption of essential nutrients.

Hookworm Parasites: The Bloodsucking Invaders

Moving on to hookworm parasites, these creatures are found in warm, moist soil and have a unique way of entering the human body - by directly penetrating the skin. As much as I enjoy walking barefoot on the beach or outside for grounding, it's essential to be cautious in areas where hookworms might lurk.

Travel Route and Impact

Hookworms travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, specifically targeting the alveoli, the tiny parts of the lungs responsible for absorbing oxygen. They can also make their way up the trachea to the throat, ultimately being swallowed and ending up in the small intestines, where they thrive. When the larvae pass through the lungs, it can lead to bronchitis.

Feeding and Global Prevalence

What's particularly disturbing about these hookworms is their feeding mechanism - the larvae attach to the intestinal mucosa with teeth-like hooks and literally feed on the host's blood, acting like tiny vampires. These parasites are not localized; they're found all over the world and prevalent in various geographical locations.

Symptoms and Longevity

Symptoms of hookworm infestations include:

  • Itchiness

  • Nausea

  • Dizziness

  • Lung problems

  • Anorexia

  • Weight loss or gain (which can be confusing) and 

  • Anemia

Shockingly, a single worm can live up to 15 years within the human body, emphasizing the importance of addressing these parasites promptly. We must take care of this issue for our well-being.

Trichinella Parasites: Masters of Disguise

Moving on to another concerning type of parasite - the trichinella parasites. What makes them particularly tricky is that almost any symptom we experience can be attributed to various stages of trichinosis. These parasites are excellent masqueraders, imitating up to 50 different diseases, ranging from flu-like symptoms to specific aches and pains.

The Transmission and Hiding Spots

While we were discussing roundworms, typically transmitted through contaminated soils, trichinella, which have a small spiral shape, have a different way of entering our bodies. Not only can they be found in contaminated soils, but they can also reside in undercooked pork. These parasites can encapsulate themselves in cysts, especially within undercooked pork, and if not cooked thoroughly, these cysts can make it through to our bodies unharmed.

It's crucial to note that trichinella parasites can enter our bodies through various routes, not limited to pork consumption. Once inside, they can burrow throughout the entire body, causing a range of health issues. It's important to reiterate that we're discussing only a fraction of the many parasites out there. The purpose here is not to alarm you but to shed light on the problem at hand.

Understanding the magnitude of the issue is the first step toward finding solutions. In the upcoming episodes, we will delve into strategies to tackle these parasite problems. There are ways to protect ourselves and improve our well-being, and that's precisely what we'll explore in the subsequent discussions. 

Understanding Tapeworm Infections: A Slow-Burn Threat

Now, let's talk about tapeworms - a topic that's both intriguing and unsettling. Tapeworms, often transmitted through beef, pork, and various meats, can also find their way into your system through fish consumption.

It's fascinating to note that tapeworms can grow remarkably long, sometimes reaching lengths of up to 20 feet or more. However, what sets them apart is their slow-burn effect. They don't cause severe symptoms immediately; instead, the issues accumulate over time. Moreover, it's uncommon to have only one type of parasite in your system. Usually, it's a combination of several parasites that can wreak havoc.

The Anatomy of Tapeworms

Tapeworms are composed of strands with thousands of segments, known as proglottids, each containing both male and female reproductive organs. Not only do these tapeworms themselves cause problems, but they also reproduce, creating more tapeworms within our bodies. They utilize what we eat and our body's tissues for their proteins, gradually causing significant damage as their numbers increase.

Long Lifespans and Symptoms

Some tapeworms can live up to 20 to 25 years, and their symptoms can range from:

  • Diarrhea 

  • Abdominal cramping

  • Nervousness

  • Nausea

  • Loss of appetite, to food cravings. 

In severe cases, certain types of tapeworms can even lead to seizures and brain deterioration.

Types of Tapeworms: Pork and Fish Tapeworms

The pork tapeworm, in its larval stage, invades:

  • Muscle

  • Heart

  • Brain tissues

Potentially causing brain-related symptoms like brain fog, Alzheimer's, and more. On the other hand, fish tapeworms are among the largest parasites found in humans and are contracted by consuming raw or lightly cooked freshwater fish or other migratory fish species. These parasites can consume a significant portion of the host's vitamin B in the intestines, potentially leading to vitamin B deficiency.

If you're experiencing;

  • Digestive disturbances

  • Pain

  • Upper abdominal fullness

  • Nausea

You might be dealing with a fish tapeworm infection. It's essential to be vigilant about the symptoms and consider medical attention if you suspect a parasite infestation. Addressing these issues promptly can make a significant difference in your health and well-being.

Liver Fluke Parasites

Let's switch gears to the liver fluke parasites - fascinating yet problematic creatures that take residence in our liver's bile ducts, causing a host of issues for the liver and gallbladder.

When liver flukes inhabit the bile ducts, it disrupts digestion because the gallbladder struggles to release bile effectively. The liver, a crucial organ for body detoxification and cleansing, also faces challenges in its functioning. A compromised liver spells trouble for your overall well-being.

Transmission

Liver flukes make their way into our systems through the consumption of;

  • Raw fish 

  • Dried fish

  • Salted fish

  • Pickled fish

  • Undercooked fish.

Regrettably, fish lovers like myself are at risk. Various species of fish, including snails, carp, and over 40 others, can act as intermediate hosts for these parasites. Once in your system, they can cause;

  • Inflammation

  • Chills

  • Fever

  • Jaundice

  • Even specific types of hepatitis. 

Surprisingly, more people might have these parasites than reported.

Blood Fluke Parasites: Freshwater Invaders

Now, let's shift our attention to blood fluke parasites, often sourced from freshwater snails. We commonly encounter freshwater snails when we engage in outdoor activities near rivers, lakes, or oceans.

Transmission

Freshwater snails release larvae into the water, contaminating both humans and fish when the larvae penetrate the skin. These larvae travel through the bloodstream, infiltrating veins in the liver, intestines, and bladder.

Connection to Bladder and Urinary Tract Issues

We haven't discussed much about the bladder, but if you're experiencing bladder or urinary tract issues, parasites might be the underlying cause. Worms lodged in the lining of the intestines, liver, or other organs can trigger inflammation, leading to a range of health problems.

Understanding the Inflammatory Link and Parasites

Parasites cause inflammation, a common thread in many chronic conditions. For instance, worms residing in your body can contribute to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), intensifying chronic symptoms. Moreover, these parasites can also infect the bladder and urinary tract.

Addressing Parasites in a Holistic Way

We've covered a lot here, and there's so much more to explore, including fungi, viruses, and other parasites like Bartonella, Borrelia, and Babesia. However, the fundamental takeaway is that you don't need to be an expert on each type. Recognizing the potential presence of parasites and understanding their general impact on the body is a crucial step in your journey to better health. 

Understanding the problem is key to finding the right solutions. Parasitic infections can manifest in numerous ways, often causing a plethora of chronic symptoms. However, we have the power to tackle them and work towards recovery. 

In our Relief & Transformation: Recovering from Long Covid and ME/CFS course, we often start by using herbs and supplements. These natural remedies can pave the way toward relief for many individuals. Sometimes, this approach alone can provide significant improvements.

Medication Stacking and Tailoring Solutions for Individual Cases

However, some cases may necessitate what's known as "medication stacking." In certain situations, using medications alongside natural remedies becomes essential. It's about finding the right balance and tailored approach to address the unique circumstances of each individual.

Testing, although important, often falls short of accurately pinpointing the exact parasite causing the issue. Hence, a broad approach that encompasses various treatments might be necessary. Combining different methods helps cover a wide spectrum of potential parasites and their effects.

Empowering individuals with knowledge about what's happening in their bodies can be transformative. Understanding the connection between symptoms and parasitic infections can alleviate fear and uncertainty.

It's essential to create a support network where experiences and knowledge are shared. By doing so, we collectively become stronger in our fight against parasitic infections. This journey is challenging, but together, we can navigate it and find the relief and recovery we all seek.

In the upcoming episodes, we'll continue this exploration into parasites and what can be done to address them effectively. 

In my Relief & Transformation: Recovering from Long Covid and ME/CFS course, we create a personalized treatment plan together for you to address these underlying infections so that your body can recover. And if you're struggling with fatigue, Long Covid, ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, etc and want to get some clarity as to why you have fatigue and if you’re a good fit for my program, you can ​apply for a free Coaching Call with me​.

Keep an eye out for upcoming blogs where we'll look a bit deeper, exploring each of these types in more detail and offering insights into effective strategies to combat and prevent infestations. Stay tuned for more enlightening information on this crucial health topic.

DISCLAIMER: The information offered is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical or psychological care or advice. Consult your physician or other health care provider regarding your symptoms and medical and psychological needs.