Tapeworm Infection: Symptoms, Complications, Treatment, and Prevention

Tapeworms are intestinal parasites acquired from undercooked meat or contaminated water.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss
• Nausea, vomiting, fatigue
• Weakness, anemia, malnutrition

Serious Complications

• Intestinal obstruction or perforation
• Liver or organ invasion (cysticercosis)
• Larval migration to tissues (neurocysticercosis)

Treatment & Prevention

• Antiparasitic drugs (praziquantel, albendazole)—highly effective.
• Cook meat/fish thoroughly; freeze fish at −20°C for 24 hrs if eating raw.
• Hand hygiene; drink treated water.

Early treatment prevents severe sequelae.