Stomach worms, also known as intestinal worms or helminths, are parasitic worms that can infect the human gastrointestinal tract and cause a range of health problems. There are several causes of stomach worms, including:
1. Poor hygiene
One of the main causes of stomach worms is poor hygiene. If a person doesn’t wash their hands after using the bathroom or before handling food, they may accidentally ingest eggs or larvae of worms. This can also happen if a person consumes contaminated food or water.
2. Eating undercooked or raw meat.
Some types of worms, such as tapeworms, can be transmitted through the consumption of undercooked or raw meat, especially pork and beef. These worms can be found in the muscles of the animal and may not be killed through cooking, so it’s important to thoroughly cook all meats to prevent infection.
3. Living in areas with poor sanitation:
Stomach worms are more common in areas with poor sanitation, as the worms can thrive in dirty water and soil. If a person lives in an area where sewage systems are not properly maintained and waste is not properly disposed of, they may be at a higher risk of contracting stomach worms.
4. Contact with infected animals
Some types of stomach worms, such as roundworms, can be transmitted through contact with infected animals, such as cats and dogs. If a person comes into contact with the feces of an infected animal, they may be at risk of contracting the worms.
5. Traveling to areas with a high prevalence of worms
Traveling to areas with a high prevalence of worms, such as parts of Africa and Southeast Asia, can also increase the risk of contracting stomach worms. It’s important for travelers to take precautions, such as avoiding drinking tap water and washing their hands frequently, to reduce the risk of infection.
Overall, stomach worms are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor hygiene, consuming undercooked or raw meat, living in areas with poor sanitation, contact with infected animals, and traveling to areas with a high prevalence of worms. To prevent infection, it’s important to practice good hygiene, thoroughly cook all meats, and take precautions when traveling to areas with a high risk of infection.
