What should you know about skin threadworms?

The female worms lay eggs around the anus, often while a person is asleep. Itching can disturb sleep, and scratching may irritate the skin or move eggs under fingernails. Some people have no noticeable symptoms. A child may become unsettled at night, and symptoms can include tummy discomfort; [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/) that is severe or persistent needs separate assessment.

Threadworms spread when eggs reach the mouth after contact with contaminated fingers, bedding, clothing, toys, or bathroom surfaces. Reinfection is common within households because eggs can remain in the environment. Bedwetting is not specific to threadworms, so ongoing [Bedwetting](/symptoms/bedwetting/) should be discussed rather than assumed to have one cause.

Speak with a pharmacist or clinician about suitable treatment, especially for young children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or other medicines. Household treatment may be advised because close contacts can carry infection without symptoms. Follow the product directions and any repeat-dose advice exactly.

Handwashing with soap after using the toilet and before eating is central. Keep fingernails short, discourage nail biting, shower in the morning, change underwear daily, and wash sleepwear, towels, and bedding regularly using the hottest suitable wash. Clean frequently touched bathroom surfaces and avoid shaking bedding.

Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if itching continues after correctly followed treatment, worms keep returning, the diagnosis is uncertain, or the skin has become sore or infected from scratching. Seek advice for significant abdominal pain, vomiting, weight loss, or symptoms in a very young child.

Urgent care is needed for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, or a child who appears seriously unwell. Do not use someone else’s medicine or apply household chemicals to the skin.

Could the symptoms be threadworms, who in the household should be treated, and is a repeat treatment needed? Ask how to clean bedding safely, when school or childcare can resume, and what alternative causes should be considered if itching persists.