Constant threadworms: what should you know?

Constant threadworms often reflect reinfection, so treatment and household hygiene need to be considered together. The worms may cause itching around the anus, especially at night, while some people have few other symptoms.

Threadworms are small intestinal worms whose eggs can remain on fingers, under nails, clothing, bedding, and household surfaces. Scratching can move eggs back to the mouth or to another person. Irritation may disturb sleep; children can sometimes develop [Bedwetting](/symptoms/bedwetting/) or tummy discomfort such as [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/). Ongoing itching does not prove that treatment has failed: eggs may have been picked up again, or another skin problem may be present.

Speak with a pharmacist or clinician about an appropriate threadworm medicine, especially for young children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or other medical conditions. Ask whether everyone in the household should be treated. Wash hands after using the toilet and before eating, keep nails short, shower in the morning, change underwear daily, and wash sleepwear, towels, and bedding regularly. Avoid shaking bedding, and clean frequently touched surfaces. Follow the product instructions and repeat any advised dose at the advised time.

Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if itching continues after treatment and hygiene measures, returns repeatedly, causes broken skin, or prevents sleep. Seek prompt advice for severe abdominal pain, vomiting, marked weakness, or a child who seems very unwell. A clinician can check whether the symptoms fit threadworms and consider another cause.

Ask how to confirm the diagnosis, whether household members need treatment, when medicine should be repeated, and how to manage persistent itching without damaging the skin.