Threadworms in underwear: what should you know?

Threadworms are also known as pinworms. At night, adult worms can move out of the anus to lay eggs on nearby skin, so they may be noticed on underwear or sleepwear in the morning. Eggs are too small to see and can spread through hands, fingernails, bedding, clothing and surfaces. Anal itching, particularly at night, is a common clue; poor sleep and mild abdominal discomfort can also occur. Lint, fibres, dried discharge and food material may resemble worms, so underwear alone does not establish the diagnosis. Bedwetting has many possible explanations and needs separate consideration.

Place the underwear in the laundry without shaking it, then wash bedding, towels, sleepwear and underwear as advised for the fabric. Wash hands with soap after handling laundry and after using the toilet, clean under short fingernails, and avoid nail biting. A morning shower can remove eggs from the skin. Speak with a pharmacist or GP about treatment for the affected person and household contacts; follow the exact product instructions and any advice about repeating treatment. Do not use another person's medicine.

Arrange medical advice if itching persists, the finding keeps returning, the person is pregnant or very young, or several people at home have symptoms. A GP can decide whether a tape test or another assessment is useful. Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, blood in stool, unusual drowsiness, or a swollen abdomen, because these signs need a broader medical assessment.

Does this appearance fit threadworms? Should other household members be treated? Which clothes and bedding should be washed, and when should we return if itching continues?