1. What are intestinal worms?

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Intestinal worms are a type of parasite that lives in human intestines. They're also referred to as parasitic worms. If you live in a subtropical or tropical region, you're more at risk, but they do exist within the United states as well. There are a lot of various symptoms and signs to tell if you have worms.
2. This is a big indicator that things are not right

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Okay, it's totally possible for you to have worms for YEARS with no symptoms. Which is... terrifying. But if you're experiencing dysentery (diarrhea with blood and mucus), this is a sign you might have worms. We'll warn you now, none of these symptoms are particularly pleasant.
3. If you have abdominal pain, you may wanna go to the doctor

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Considering that these gross little parasites live in your intestines, it makes perfect sense that a common symptom is abdominal pain. If you're having intense pain or if your stomach is tender to the touch, it might be time to visit a doctor and see what's up!
4. Vomiting and diarrhea are signs

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We already talked about dysentery. But even if you're experiencing prolonged diarrhea without any blood or mucus, this could be a sign of worms. The same goes for nausea or vomiting spells. If it's an ongoing issue, it's the sign of a bigger problem, and it could be worms!
5. Your belly is always bloated

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Most people experience gas and bloating just from normal life, so it might be more difficult to detect worms off of these symptoms alone. But if you are experiencing a lot of gas and bloating that seems to never go away, you could have some pesky friends in your intestines.
6. People with worms complain of this

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A lot of people have said that the first sign that they noticed that something wasn't right was feeling constantly tired or fatigued. Others mentioned they were losing unexplained weight fairly quickly. This is because the worms are literally using you as an energy source and food.
7. You can look for this sign of worms

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If you have worms, they'll eventually pass through your body and come out in your bowel movements. So even if you don't have any symptoms mentioned above, you might see worms in your stool. Depending on the type of worm, you can quite literally see them in your bowel movement. There are some worms that will even lay eggs on the skin surrounding the anal region. I'm so sorry to be the bearer of this news!
8. There are different types of worms

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A doctor can obviously help you analyze your symptoms and even take samples to give you a more firm diagnosis. There are different types of worms that can end up infecting you, so it's important to know what you're dealing with! Let's take a look at some of the common ones.
9. Tapeworms

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Around 1,000 people are infected with tapeworms each year. They're typically acquired from eating raw or improperly cooked pork or beef. There has been records of tapeworms as long as 82 feet found in humans! Eek. Common signs are weight loss and fatigue.
10. Flukes

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There are more than 70 different types of flukes that can end up latching onto your intestinal tract. They say these can range from a fraction of an inch in length to several inches. Humans usually get infected from eating contaminated food or water unknowingly.
11. Hookworms

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Hookworms aren't as common as pinworms, but they still infect around 750 million people. They used to be more common in the United States, but as living conditions have improved, they have died off. The thing to know about hookworms is that most people don't have any symptoms!
12. Pinworms

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Okay, pinworms are way more common. They infect more than 1 billion people in the world. This is the most common worm that will likely live in a human, especially in North America. Children are more susceptible to this particular worm, and they can easily be passed between people who live in under the same roof.
13. Ascariasis

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Ascariasis affects 800,000 people around the world. It's very rare in the US, but there have been reported cases in the Southeast. As with the others, the infection comes from contaminated food or water. These worms can grow to be more than a foot long. And like others, it's possible to have this worm and show no symptoms!
14. In children, these are also symptoms

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Particularly with pinworms in children, a few additional symptoms to be on the lookout for are a loss of appetite and bedwetting. It may also be more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. These symptoms can occur in adults too. But they should be taken seriously, because it's possible for the worm to move from the intestine into the urinary tract or liver, or even the uterus and vagina in women.
15. How are they spread?

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Warning... this is pretty gross. Worms lay eggs around an infected person's bottom at night time. The worm also secretes a mucus that will likely make the person itchy in that area. If the worm eggs get stuck on someone's fingertips when they scratch, they will be transferred to their mouth, surfaces and clothing. Then other people may touch those areas and become infected.
16. Literally not going to be able to sleep tonight with this information

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Pinworms can survive up to two weeks before they start hatching. If the eggs stay on and hatch around the bottom, then it's possible that the new worms will re-enter the body. Any eggs that have been swallowed will then hatch inside the intestine. Worms reach adulthood in 2 weeks and then begin the reproduction cycle again.
17. Other ways you might get worms

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Overall, the most common way of getting parasites is from eating undercooked meat where the animal is infected. But you can also get them from contaminated water or soil. If you live in an area with poor sanitation or if you have poor hygiene, you're also more at risk. If the worms go unchecked for a long time, you're more likely to show symptoms because the number and size of the worms will increase.
18. Who's most likely to get worms?

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Children are more susceptible to getting intestinal worms. This is because they play in environments like sandboxes and playgrounds that are often contaminated. Senior and elderly adults are also at risk, because their immune systems are not as strong.
19. A lot of people have them and don't realize it

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The World Health Organization has said that approximately 24% of the world's population has worms. These infections are very common in tropical regions. If you are traveling to or live in a developing country, you are at a much higher risk, especially if you drink the water in these areas.
20. There are complications to watch out for

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If you have worms, you are more at risk for anemia and even intestinal blockages. Because the worms are literally feeding off your body, you might find yourself extremely malnourished. If you are pregnant, speak to your doctor to see which medication is safest for you to take during your pregnancy.
21. Should you call your doctor?

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As mentioned, there are a lot of worms that will result in no symptoms or very mild symptoms. However, it's super important to contact your doctor if you have any suspicion you might have worms. The earlier you get treated, the less complications and side effects you'll have.
22. Definitely see your doctor for these

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If you have these symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately. Blood or pus in your stool, vomiting daily, elevated body temperature, extreme dehydration and fatigue., weight loss with no explanation, red and itching skin with a worm-shaped rash.
23. Let's talk about that for a second

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We've said that these worms primarily live in your intestines and make their way through your system. This is true, but it's not unknown for a worm to find its way to the surface of your skin. If you're having extreme itching and a rash that's worm-shaped, then it's possible the worm is near the surface of your skin. My classmate experienced this first hand with a cut on her arm. She picked at a white spot in the cut and pulled out a 3 foot worm! I have never recovered.
24. If your bottom is itchy, not a good sign

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If you have pinworms, you'll likely notice redness and extreme itching around your bottom. As mentioned, these worms can cause loss of sleep and appetite. Another common sign is irritability. Pinworms actually come out of the anus at night to lay eggs, they look like small white threads. You can see them if you look with a flashlight. This article is causing me so much stress.
25. There's a pork tapeworm

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Pork tapeworms have their own unique set of symptoms because the eggs enter your bloodstream and hatch in your tissues. They will form fluid-filled cysts. These cysts may cause vision changes, lumps on the skin, brain function changes, and even seizures!
26. Symptoms can sometimes be severe

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Some types of worms can affect the central nervous system causing harsher symptoms and consequences to your health. As mentioned, there can be sensory issues, vision and cognitive issues, and even mobility issues. This is why it's so important to keep an eye on anything that seems abnormal and see a doctor sooner than later!
27. Just a few more symptoms that might pop up

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Another sign you might have worms is if you're experiencing insatiable muscle aches or joint pain. If you have swelling of your face or eyes, or if you're having difficulty breathing, these could all be signs. We discussed diarrhea, but constipation can also be a sign, depending on where and how the worms are moving through your body!
28. You can do the Scotch-tape test

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There's a test known as the Scotch tape test. As we've said, these worms lay eggs around your bottom. You can apply a piece of tape to the anus multiple times and see if there are pinworms on the tape. These will need to be identified with a microscope.
29. The doctor can test for these

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Your doctor can also do a blood test to determine if you have a parasite. X-rays are also an option if needed. So if you have any of these symptoms, especially if you've traveled outside the US, then make a doctor's appointment for a stool evaluation.
30. How to prevent getting worms

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Okay, all of this sounded truly terrible. So if you want to avoid worms, then wash your hands regularly with soap and hot water, and practice good hygiene. Avoid eating raw fish (yes, even sushi) and other meats. Make sure you wash all of your fruits and vegetables, and if you drop something on the floor, wash, reheat or toss it.
31. Wash your hands before preparing food
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We know washing your hands more in general is a must to prevent worms, but definitely take more care to wash them for longer and more thoroughly before you prepare food! You might think because you went to the bathroom 5 minutes ago and washed your hands it's all good, but you could've touched more than you think since then!
32. Wash your hands after touching soil
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Of course, the most obvious place for worms to be prevalent is the soil, and things are easily spread if you're not washing your hands properly. So if you're very green-fingered and you spend a lot of time tending to your garden, make sure you're washing your hands every time they come into contact with soil.
33. Only drink bottled water in certain places
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There are certain places in the world that don't have modern sewage systems or toilets, like certain countries in Europe, and these can be high-risk areas for drinking water from a tap like you would at home. So make sure to drink bottled water only from these places.
34. Or boil your water first

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If it's not possible to drink water directly from a bottle and your only choice is water from a tap - or maybe a natural source of water if you're out camping or in an emergency situation - you should boil any water before consuming it to help prevent worm infections.
35. Make sure to keep on top of your pet worming
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Even though you might not think it's a risk for humans, pet worms can also be a problem for humans. It's very rare for it to happen, and it only applies to getting a certain type of worm, but it's still a risk, however low. So stay on top of your regular worming treatments for pets where applicable!
36. Get rid of pet poop as quickly as possible
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If you have a garden where you let your dog or cat poop, a litter box in the house for your cat or even puppy training mats where your dog is still doing their business in the house, make sure to be keeping on top of the cleaning routine to help prevent the risk of worm problems spreading!
37. If your grow your own veggies, take extra care washing them
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This applies to both washing your hands after you've been touching the soil and harvesting your veg, and washing the vegetables and fruit themselves after they've been in the ground. A thorough washing will make sure you can reduce the risk of worms as much as possible.
38. Be careful where your kids play
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If you're in a public place where there is a high percentage of dog or cat poop - which can easily happen in public parks and playgrounds, either from people not picking up after their pets, or stray dogs and cats doing their business wherever they want - them make sure your kids don't play near those areas to avoid the risk.
39. Don't walk barefoot in certain risky areas
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The same applies to the areas that you might be walking bare foot, as you also don't want to be kicking your shoes off in a place that could be wrought with dog or cat poop either, even if you think it's a nice day to take your socks off in the park or at the local beach!
40. Be careful with undercooked beef or pork
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There is a certain tapeworm that can be a risk to humans if they consume it, which comes from undercooked beef or pork. It's a condition called Taeniasis that can come from a tapeworm. So make sure to always double check how you've cooked your meat, and you may want to switch it up a few levels if you like your meat on the rare side!
41. How can you catch worms? Certain surfaces
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It's important to understand fully how you can actually catch worms, because it's not something many people think about being a risk during their everyday lives! If certain surfaces have worm eggs on them - such as unsanitary surfaces you've touched - this is a way you could get them.
42. Someone else who doesn't wash their hands
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The sad reality is no matter how much you're washing and scrubbing your hands until their shining clean, it only takes someone else with worms who hasn't washed their hands properly to still infect you! So you might want to be careful of whose hand you're shaking!
43. Touching soil with worm eggs
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As we said, soil is also a big risk if the soil is infected with worm eggs, but it's important to think about any soil being a risk. It's a very low risk if it's your home garden or garden center soil, for example, and bigger risks come from soil in countries without modern sewage systems.
44. Swallowing water with worm eggs
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Be sure to think about how you're drinking water when you're in other countries, too, as it also applies to restaurants and cafes if you're not ordering bottled water and these places don't have modern toilets or sewage systems. Do your research about the water supply before you visit a new place.
45. Baby worms from undercooked food
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Baby worms can also get into food even if it's been cooked correctly if it's a part of the world - or restaurant - that has very poor hygiene standards. Though undercooked food will be the biggest risk for baby worms being present, it's all the more risky if you're ordering meat out at a random restaurant in a different country that doesn't look very clean...
46. From pets
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As mentioned, pets are also a risk, even though it's a very low one - but it's not just your own. Make sure to be aware of all the pets you're spending time with, such as pets of friends and family who might not be up to date with the worming schedule, or even strangers' dogs at the park.
47. Keep your feet clean as much as you can

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Not only is keeping your feet clean a good practice for washing away any dirt or risk of infection, but it's also a good opportunity to check that everything looks okay down there! How often do you actually look at the bottom of your feet if you're not giving them a good wash? This will let you know whether there are any signs of worms.
48. Wear shoes as much as possible
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This might sound like a no-brainer but there are certain areas you might be a bit more 'free' with not wearing shoes - think public swimming pools, public lakes or ponds, walking through parks, or even if you're getting involved in runs or marathons that go through mud and dirt and gets in your shoes!
49. Treatment from a doctor is possible
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It's actually relatively easy to treat the worm problem once it's been diagnosed by a health professional. Usually, this will just be some medicine to take which can then take a few days to kick in before you'll naturally pass out the worms when you go the toilet - and you might not even see them!
50. Get other people in your household tested too
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It's important to remember that if you live closely with others - like sharing a bed with a partner or you're around children in the house - it's always worth them getting checked out too if you've been diagnosed with worms, because it's very easy to pass the infection on within a household.
51. Some of the signs aren't obvious!

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Dealing with worm infections can be tricky, and not all the signs are as clear. Symptoms can range from the more noticeable, like stomach pain and changes in bathroom habits, to the less obvious, such as unexplained fatigue, allergies, or even mood swings.
52. You may have a fever

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If you find yourself with a temperature, your body might be signaling that something's amiss. A fever, often accompanied by other symptoms like chills and body aches, could be a red flag that your immune system is kicking into gear to battle an infection which in this case could be worms!
53. It may feel like you've got the flu

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It's very difficult to know when you have worms because you may dismiss it as a virus or the flu. The combination of body aches, fatigue, and an overall sense of unwellness can indeed mimic flu-like symptoms. While it is a common cause, it's essential to recognize that other infections, including parasitic ones, might manifest in a similar way.
54. You could start to lose a lot of weight for no apparent reason

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When you have parasitic worms, they essentially hijack your digestive system. These unwelcome parasites consume the nutrients your body needs, leading to a state of malnutrition. And, certain worms can also rev up your metabolism, causing you to burn calories faster than usual.
55. You could develop a skin rash

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The presence of parasitic worms in the body can sometimes manifest in unexpected ways, and one such sign may be the development of a skin rash. Your body is physically showing you that something is up, which you should then respond to by seeking help!
56. Joint pain is another innocuous symptom

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Joint pain, seemingly innocent on the surface, could actually be a subtle indicator of a deeper issue—possibly, the presence of parasitic worms. Sometimes you have to delve into multiple potential causes before you get to the real issue which could be worms.
57. As is grinding your teeth!

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Teeth grinding, a seemingly mundane (if not aggravating) habit, can actually be a subtle signal that something deeper might be at play—like an unwelcome visit from parasitic worms. In terms of having worms, it might be a response to the body's heightened state of alertness.
58. It may be difficult to get a good night's sleep...

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Your body's attempt to rest might be disrupted by the presence of worms, causing discomfort, restlessness, or even insomnia. It's hard for your body to fully rest when it's being essentially invaded by a parasitic worm! Instead, you may not realize but you have heightened alertness.
59. If you're feeling super irritable it could be another sign

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Ever find yourself on edge, irritable over the smallest things? It's not fun for you...or those around you! Feeling super irritable could be your body's way of signaling that something beneath the surface is wrong. It's actually a very unexpected sign of worms, amongst other things.
60. Check your face to see if you're looking pale

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If you look in the mirror and find yourself looking a LOT more pale than usual, then perhaps something is wrong. It could be a sign that internally, your body is struggling. This, coupled with other symptoms can even indicate having a worm infection.
61. Nobody expects coughing to be a sign

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Coughing, an unexpected accomplice to parasitic worms, can catch you off guard. Usually when we cough, we assume it's because of a virus we've picked up, and not worms. While coughing is commonly associated with respiratory issues, some parasitic infections can actually find their way into the respiratory system!
62. TMI, but your stools may smell foul

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If you notice that your stools have taken on a foul smell (worse than usual!), it could be a sign of an underlying issue, potentially involving parasitic worms. This is because they may be taking your body's nutrients and leaving you with changes in your bodily functions!
63. You may experience a loss of concentration

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If you're finding it hard to stay focused and your mind seems to be playing hide-and-seek, it might be more than just a fleeting distraction. A loss of concentration, surprisingly, could be a symptom of parasitic worm activity. They steal your nutrients which can affect cognitive function!
64. And even memory loss!

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For the very same reason, it can also cause memory loss which is a more extreme case of what can happen to your brain if you have worms. These intruders, causing disruptions in your body, might not just be affecting your gut but also impacting your memory functions.
65. Hallucinations are a sign

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Hallucinations, an unsettling symptom, can indeed be a sign that something significant is happening within your body. This happens when the worms are affecting your central nervous system. If you start having hallucinations you need to see a medical professional.
66. Excessive salivation is another symptom to watch out for

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If pools of saliva have started to form, or you're excessively dribbling then something could be up. These unwelcome guests might be causing disruptions in your digestive system, triggering an abnormal response in your saliva production. It's like your body's way of trying to flush out the invaders.
67. Are you hair and nails more brittle than usual?

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Surprisingly, increased brittleness in hair and nails could be a sign of an underlying issue, potentially related to parasitic infections. This is also due tot he parasite taking your body's vitamins and nutrients which then manifest in weak hair and brittle nails!
68. Tasting metal may be a sign

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If you suddenly find yourself tasting metal when there's no logical reason for it, your body might be trying to convey an important message. The worm infection could be triggering unusual responses and sensations because of the disruptions to your digestive system.
69. Watch out for mood swings

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Worms can disrupt the delicate balance of your body, affecting neurotransmitters and influencing your mood and making your emotions feel all over the place. So, you may notice than you're going from happy to angry, to sad, all within a whirlwind of mere seconds.
70. And a chronic cough

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A chronic cough that lingers might be signaling an underlying issue, potentially worms! They find their way into the respiratory system and can then cause irritation and a persistent cough. A cough that does not go away is always something that you should get checked out.
71. You can even feel anxious

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Feeling an unexpected wave of anxiety washing over you could be more than just a passing mood, it may be persistent. It could be the worms in your body making you feel this way by interfering with your nervous system and triggering feelings of anxiety and nervousness!
72. Your lymph nodes could swell up

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Enlarged lymph nodes indicate that your body is fighting against something. While it's often a signal of many different infections, it is also a sign that you could have worms. If you're dealing with persistent swollen lymph nodes, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, it's a clear cue to consult with a healthcare professional.
73. You might experience cravings for sweets

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If your sweet tooth seems to have developed an insatiable appetite out of the blue, it might be more than just a random hankering. Surprisingly, parasitic infections could be pulling the strings on your taste buds, creating newfound desires for sweets. The worms may be interfering with your body's nutrient absorption, prompting cravings as your system seeks the energy it needs.
74. Or even develop intolerances to certain foods

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Surprisingly, parasitic infections could be playing a role in altering your body's tolerance to certain foods. These parasitic guests might be causing disruptions in your digestive system, making certain foods harder to digest or triggering sensitivities that you may never have even experienced before.
75. You could feel super hungry!

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If you have worms, an unrelenting hunger may take over. It's more than your usual hunger cravings, and it occurs much more frequently. Because they have disrupted your body's nutrient absorption, it can leave you with persistent hunger as your system seeks the nutrients it needs.
76. Be careful, because it can lower your immune system

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Be cautious because parasitic infections can affect your immune system. Essentially, they divert your body's attention, making it harder to fend off other potential threats as you already have an infection to fight off. If you've noticed frequent illnesses or a slow recovery, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional.
77. And make you susceptible to infections

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Being afflicted by parasitic infections can make you more vulnerable to additional infections. These invaders not only engage with your immune system but can also compromise its efficiency, leaving you less capable of warding off other pathogens. It's like they create a chink in your body's armor, making it easier for other infections to take hold.
78. You are especially at risk if you have an autoimmune disease

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If you have an autoimmune condition and suspect a parasitic infection, it's crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional. Autoimmune diseases involve the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, and a parasitic infection can further dysregulated this delicate balance.
79. If you have any doubt, get it checked out!

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Trusting your instincts and taking any doubts seriously is crucial for your health. If you suspect a parasitic infection or experience unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to seek professional medical advice. Getting it checked out early can prevent potential complications!
80. Let's look at some more facts we should know about worms

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The life cycles of parasitic worms can be intricate, often involving multiple hosts. Transmission of worm infections can occur through various routes, such as contaminated food, water, or soil. Some worms have zoonotic potential, meaning they can be transmitted between animals and humans.
81. Blood tests may show that your white blood cells are doing, it could indicate worms!

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An intriguing aspect of potential worm infections is the impact they can have on your blood composition, specifically on white blood cells. When blood tests reveal abnormalities in the levels or activities of white blood cells, it might signal the presence of worms.
82. There's a link between chronic fatigue syndrome and worms

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When blood tests reveal abnormalities in the levels or activities of white blood cells, it might signal the presence of worms. These unwelcome invaders can trigger an immune response (which shows your body is under attack from infection), leading to changes in the blood profile.
83. Worms can migrate from one place in the body to another

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The migration of worms from one location to another can result in varied symptoms and complications. For example, some parasitic worms, such as certain species of intestinal worms, may migrate within the digestive system. This movement can cause abdominal pain, discomfort, and may even lead to blockages in severe cases.
84. They can even move to organ tissues

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When these worms invade organs, they can disrupt normal organ function, trigger inflammatory responses, and cause damage. For example, some parasitic worms have been known to migrate to the liver, lungs, or other vital organs. This migration can result in symptoms such as abdominal pain, respiratory issues, and organ dysfunction.
85. Side effects can be awful

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Damage to organ tissues can lead to more severe health complications. The specific side effects depend on the type of worm, its life cycle, and the organs it targets. Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to identify the presence and location of the parasitic infection.
86. Flying insects can transmit worms to them

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One specific example is the transmission of filarial worms, which cause diseases like lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis (river blindness). Mosquitoes are the primary vectors for filarial worms, and when an infected mosquito bites a person, it can transfer the larvae of the worm into the bloodstream, leading to infection.
87. You could have multiple parasitic worms, not just one type

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Having multiple parasitic infections can complicate the clinical picture, as each type of worm may have its own set of symptoms, life cycle, and potential complications. Additionally, the interactions between different parasites within the host's body can influence the course and severity of the infections.
88. Worms can cause severe dehydration

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Certain parasitic worms can indeed lead to severe dehydration as one of their detrimental effects on the host. This is often associated with infections involving intestinal worms, such as certain species of roundworms, tapeworms, or hookworms. They remove your nutrients, giving you an insatiable thirst!
89. Many worm infections fall under the category of 'neglected tropical diseases'

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Many worm infections are classified as "neglected tropical diseases" (NTDs). Neglected tropical diseases are a group of infectious diseases that primarily affect populations within tropical regions where research and funding is still massively lacking!
90. People in certain jobs are more likely to get worms

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People involved in farming or handling livestock may be susceptible to various parasitic infections, including those transmitted through contact with animals or animal waste. And, those working in sanitation and waste management may face a higher risk due to exposure to contaminated environments and waste.
91. Some animals act as 'hosts' for the worms, keeping them alive until they get to a human

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In the world of parasites, some animals help worms grow before they can infect people. These animals are like a middle step in the worm's life. For example, certain snails are needed for a worm called Schistosoma to develop fully. The worm's larvae grow inside the snail before moving into water, where they can then infect humans.
92. Worms affect poorer areas of the world much worse

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Parasitic worm infections tend to have a more significant impact on poorer areas of the world, and this is often due to a combination of factors associated with poverty and limited access to resources. There is less money to tackle problems, even prevalent ones such as parasites.
93. Your genetics may mean that you are more likely to get them

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Some individuals may have genetic variations that affect their immune response, making them more or less susceptible to certain infections. For example, variations in genes related to immune function or the production of specific proteins may influence how the body responds to parasitic invaders.
94. Social stigma can mean that some people don't get treated for worms

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It's sad to think that in some areas the social stigma surrounding worms actually prevents some people from getting the help that they need. The stigma associated with these infections often stems from misconceptions, lack of awareness, and cultural beliefs.
95. Climate change could bring lots of new worm species

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As the climate changes, it can affect where different species, including worms, live. Warmer temperatures and other changes might allow certain worms to move into new areas. This could happen because the places where these worms can survive may expand. It might also affect how worms interact with animals and people, spreading diseases.
96. There are so many types, only a few have been discovered

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he diversity of worms is vast, and many different species likely exist that haven't been discovered or studied yet. Earth is home to an incredibly rich variety of worms, each adapted to specific environments - lurking, remaining completely undiscovered.
97. Traveler's diarrhea could be a sign of worms

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While traveler's diarrhea is typically caused by bacterial or viral infections rather than parasitic worms, it's essential to note that certain parasitic infections can also contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms. Traveler's diarrhea is often linked to contaminated food or water, and bacteria!
98. Some worms can live without a host!

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Some worms have the ability to survive outside of a host, at least for a certain period. These worms may exist in various environments, such as soil, water, or even on surfaces that we can unknowingly pick up! Some are necessary, but others are harmful to our health.
99. There's still so much we don't know about the complexities of worms

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Despite significant advancements in scientific research, there is still so much we don't know about the complexities of these creatures. The intricate relationships between worms and their environments, the vast diversity of species, and their roles in ecosystems present thousands of questions!
100. Thankfully, new research is helping to prevent worms

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Scientific advancements contribute to a deeper understanding of the biology of worms, their life cycles, and the factors that influence their transmission. This knowledge serves as the foundation for the development of effective prevention and treatment measures.