Why do threadworms cause bedwetting?

Threadworms often lay eggs around the anus at night. The resulting itch can wake a child repeatedly, make sleep lighter, or lead to scratching and local irritation. A child who is deeply tired or unsettled during sleep may be less able to wake when their bladder is full. Bedwetting is a common presentation of Threadworms, but bedwetting also has many other possible causes and deserves a balanced assessment.

Other clues can include itching around the bottom at night, disturbed sleep, irritability, or seeing small white worms in stool or near the anus. Some people have few noticeable symptoms.

Arrange a GP or pharmacist consultation if threadworms are suspected. They can advise on suitable treatment and whether household members also need treatment. Handwashing after using the toilet and before eating, keeping fingernails short, changing underwear daily, and washing bedding and nightwear can reduce the chance of eggs being spread.

Keep a simple note of nighttime itching, wet nights, bowel habits, new medicines, and daytime urinary symptoms. This gives the clinician practical details to guide the next steps.

Seek prompt medical advice for pain or burning when passing urine, fever, blood in urine, severe tummy pain, vomiting, marked thirst, new daytime wetting, weakness, or a child who seems significantly unwell. Get urgent help for trouble breathing, confusion, or severe dehydration.

Ask whether the pattern fits threadworms, whether a urine test or another check is needed, how to prevent reinfection at home, and when persistent bedwetting should be reviewed again.