B79: Trichuriasis
Some worms are parasites. Parasites gain a unilateral benefit from cohabiting with other living creatures. If you get the parasites, or their eggs, in your mouth, they can get into your stomach and intestine. There the parasites feed on the nutrients there. To be sure that worms in food are killed off, the food can be cooked. Another option is to freeze the food for a long time at a low temperature.
Whipworms live as parasites in the human body. Sufferers excrete the whipworm eggs along with stool. You can get infected if the eggs get into your mouth.
Whipworms can cause problems. You may get stomach ache, or lose your appetite and have diarrhea. You may also not absorb enough nutrients from your food and lose weight. Whipworms can also cause anemia. With anemia, you have insufficient hemoglobin in your body. This pigment is important for carrying oxygen in the blood.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.