What should you know about threadworms?

Threadworms, also called pinworms, lay eggs around the anus, often overnight. This can cause itching and disturbed sleep. Scratching can transfer eggs to fingers, bedding, toys, surfaces, and food, allowing infection to pass between people or recur in the same household.

Some people have no noticeable symptoms. Others may be irritable or tired because sleep is interrupted. Abdominal pain or bedwetting can occur, but these symptoms have many possible causes and should not be assumed to be due to threadworms.

A pharmacist or clinician can advise on treatment suitable for the affected person and close household contacts. Take the medicine exactly as directed and check before using it for young children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or if someone has a long-term condition or takes regular medicines.

Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food. Keep fingernails short and clean, discourage nail biting, change underwear and sleepwear, and wash bedding and towels. Regular cleaning of bathroom surfaces and frequently touched items can reduce the chance of eggs being passed on.

Arrange a GP consultation if itching continues despite treatment and household hygiene measures, if symptoms keep returning, or if you are unsure of the diagnosis. Seek urgent advice for severe or worsening abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, blood in stool, marked swelling, or a child who appears very unwell. These features need assessment for causes beyond threadworms.

Ask whether everyone in the household needs treatment, which hygiene measures matter most, and when a repeat dose may be needed. If symptoms persist, ask whether another skin, bowel, or urinary cause should be considered.