Varicocele is similar to a varicose vein that can occur in your leg. A varicocele may cause:

Shrinkage of the affected testicle (atrophy). The bulk of the testicle comprises sperm-producing tubules. When damaged, as from varicocele, the testicle shrinks and softens. It’s not clear what causes the testicle to shrink, but the malfunctioning valves allow blood to pool in the veins, which can result in increased pressure in the veins and exposure to toxins in the blood that may cause testicular damage.

Infertility. It’s not clear how varicoceles affect fertility. The testicular veins cool blood in the testicular artery, helping to maintain the proper temperature for optimal sperm production. By blocking blood flow, a varicocele may keep the local temperature too high, affecting sperm formation and movement (motility). Most varicoceles develop over time. Fortunately, most varicoceles are easy to diagnose and, if they cause symptoms, can be repaired surgically.

Symptoms of bag of worms include dull discomfort, feeling of heaviness, sharp discomfort, increased discomfort with sitting, standing or physical exertion (especially over long periods), symptoms worsen during the course of the day, and relief is felt when lying on your back. The condition itself can worsen over time as the varicoceles enlarge.

Varicocele can often “sneak up” on the individual. As a result, the condition is often discovered during a routine physical exam or fertility evaluation.

How Does Bag of Worms Develop?

Varicoceles or bag of worms typically develops between the ages of 15 and 25. It is unclear exactly what causes varicoceles, but medical professionals believe a varicocele forms when the valves inside the veins in the cord prevent the blood from flowing properly. The resulting backup causes the veins to dilate (widen). Varicoceles typically occurs on the left side. This is likely because of the position of the left testicular vein. Unfortunately, a varicocele in one testicle can affect sperm production in both testicles.

Bag of Worms Treatment

In some cases, bag of worms won’t require any treatment. In these cases, the varicocele might not cause pain, testicular atrophy or infertility. If it does, you may have to undergo
varicocele repair. During varicocele repair, the affected vein is sealed off in order to redirect blood flow into normal veins. Repair methods include open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and percutaneous embolization.

There are several things you can do to relieve pain and discomfort at home until you get to a doctor. You can take over-the-counter painkillers such as Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin and you can wear an athletic supporter.

For more information about varicoceles (bag of worms), see:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/Varicocele/DS00618

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002263

http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/guys/varicocele.html

As for earthworms, besides being grossed out, accidentally swallowing a worm won’t harm you. In fact, some worms are actually beneficial to the body, although they are not necessary for survival. Worms are packed with protein, they are a source of nourishment and food for many animals, and they may provide a fair amount of entertainment as documented in the popular book How to Eat Fried Worms.

Other types of beneficial worms are being used in experimental research to treat intestinal diseases such as ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is an intestinal disease that causes severe cramps and sudden attacks of diarrhea. It is not curable, but doctors are trying to find ways to manage the disease and give patients relief from its symptoms. Worms are proving to alleviate the symptoms of this disease and give relief to those who suffer from it.

One mother from Iowa (Anna Glanz) visits her doctor every three weeks to drink worm eggs. The worms then grow inside her gut and then pass out of her system after a few weeks. The result of this treatment has been a complete remission from the disease. She no longer has any of the symptoms she previously suffered from. While the idea of deliberately eating worms (or in this case worm eggs) may make some nauseous, those who participate in research trials are finding that it is far better than suffering from the condition itself.

Other researchers continue to investigate the advantages of worms in the human body. Some believe that the human immune system is now out of balance since worms have been eradicated from the body. Gut worms in particular were part of the human system until about 50 years ago. A unique coincidence of this fact is that until about 50 years ago, allergies were virtually non-existent.

One UK scientist developed a case of hookworms when on a field trip. He studies himself as well as the worms living inside him because he has had nearly a complete remission of his hay fever symptoms since the hookworms entered his body.

These ideas are not entirely new. In many underdeveloped countries, natives still function with worms in their bodies. And, in some countries, such as China and Mexico, that eat worms as part of the daily diet. Worms can be nutritious, good for your health, and they do have a lot of protein.

Most worms that dwell in soil and gardens are fairly safe to eat. However, there are also many insects that appear to be worms in the early stages of life, but they are not worms at all. Butterflies, moths, and flies are commonly mistaken for worms in their larval stages. And while maggots (baby flies) are not likely to hurt anyone, they are seldom among the animals (worms or otherwise) that anyone wants to eat, even on a dare.

Source
British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/3287733.stm

Some individuals may have an infection and not know it, while others will experience mild to moderate symptoms. The most common symptom caused by pinworms is itching around the anus. The itching becomes more intense at night when the female pinworm lays her eggs on the skin of infected person. Because pinworms can be easily spotted, they are easy to diagnose. The adult pinworm is small, white, and threadlike. Because they are most active at night, this is the best time to look for them. Pinworms can also be seen on the outside of the infected person’s stool. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for pinworms. According to MedicineHealth:

“Albendazole (Albenza) is the most common treatment for pinworms. Treatment is a single tablet, which kills the worms. There are different strengths for adults and children younger than 2 years. To lessen the chance of reinfection, the infected person will have to take a second dose two weeks after treatment. Pinworm eggs can survive for a few weeks. Other treatments such as Mebendazole (Vermox) and pyrantel pamoate (Pin-Rid, Pin-X) also work. They are also taken in a single dose and repeated 2 weeks later.”

There are several things that must be done after treatment (and beyond) to prevent reinfection. The treated individual should:

• Avoid biting the fingernails.
• Clean and vacuum play areas. Continue this practice indefinitely.
• Get into the habit of thoroughly washing the hands after using the bathroom, before and after eating, and before preparing food.
• Launder all bedding every 3-7 days for 3 weeks.
• Make sure the child or infected person changes his/her underwear daily.
• Thoroughly wash all bedding, clothing, pajamas, and toys with hot water and soap to destroy any lingering eggs.
• Wash underwear and pajamas daily for 2 weeks.

If you have been treated for pinworms and you have carefully followed all of the steps listed above, but you still become reinfected, do not get discouraged. It is common to become reinfected several months or so after treatment. Simply call your doctor to get started on another round of treatment.

About Pinworms

Pinworms or “pin worms” belong to the family Oxyuridae, order Oxyuroidea, and the phylum Nematoda. The pinworm is classified as Enterobius vermicularis. Threadworms are also classified as Enterobius vermicularis. Pinworm is the most prevalent parasite infection in the United States and Europe. Pinworm does not discriminate. It can occur within all ethnic groups, all classes, and in urban or rural areas.

Abdominal discomfort
Anemia
Bloody stools
Chills
Constipation
Coughing
Diarrhea
Eye pain
Fatigue
Fever
Gas
Insomnia
Loss of appetite
Mental dullness
Nausea
Nervousness
Protein deficiency
Rashes
Stomach bloating
Vomiting
Weakness

Some of the most dangerous symptoms such as anemia, protein deficiency, and vomiting can cause major health problems such as muscle loss, weight loss, osteoporosis, malnutrition, mental illness, and even heart disease. Anemia can cause blood loss, shortness of breath, chronic fatigue, severe sensitivity to cold, and weight loss. Frequent vomiting can cause weight loss, nutrient deficiency, hair loss, tooth erosion, spasms, dizziness, and esophageal erosion and ulcers.

The different types of worm categories are Cestoda, Nematoda, Protozoa, or Trematoda. Common types of worms from each category include tapeworms, (Cestodes); hookworms, pinworms, and roundworms (Nematodes); giardia (Protozoa); and flat worms, (Trematoda). According to the World Health Organization, although the more than 2 billion people around the world are infected with one or more of the existing 3,200 parasitic worms, the most common type of parasitic worms in humans is the roundworm.

It is estimated that one in every four humans is infected with roundworms. Humans may contract roundworms or other types of worms by ingesting them through contaminated water or uncooked foods. Humans may also contract worms from pets or even from shaking hands with an infected person.

To detect worms, a physician will collect a feces sample and examine it for parasites and/or eggs. Fortunately, most parasites can be eliminated through a round of antibiotics or by using several natural remedies. Parasites can be eliminated from the body with colon cleansers and/or colonics, several rounds of antibiotics or medications as prescribed by a physician, or by utilizing a number of different herbal or natural remedies. It’s best to meet with an herbalist to discuss the best remedied for intestinal worms. Your herbalist may suggest one or more of the following:

Black walnut leaves, wormwood, quassia, cloves, male fern
Capsicum, wormwood, sage
Cramp bark, pumpkin seed, capsicum, thyme, garlic
Black walnut, pine needles, sassafras

Most herbal remedies should be taken orally for a minimum of two weeks. Some individuals may complain of re-infection. It is very important to change your eating habits immediately if you suspect a parasite or worm infection. It’s best not to go back to your regular eating habits in order to prevent re-infection. Certain foods, spices, and beverages might help to ward off parasite infections or they will keep you from becoming infected through food or water sources. These include:

Cranberry juice
High-fiber foods
Pumpkin seeds
Garlic
Pomegranates
Apple cider vinegar
Figs
Bottled or distilled water
Thoroughly cooked meats and seafood
Organic fruits and vegetables, washed thoroughly

Preventing Intestinal Worms in the Human Body

Avoid the following foods and activities:

Undercooked meats
Chestnuts
Sugar
Watercress
Refined carbohydrates
Swimming in lakes, rivers, an streams
Using the microwave to cook meats

You should always wash your hands thoroughly after a visit to the restroom whether it is in your home or in a public place. In addition, wash kitchen utensils and countertops with hot soapy water after each use and wear gloves when changing your cats litter box or cleaning up after your pets.

For more information about parasitic worms, visit the official World Health Organization website at www.who.int.

While most maggots feed on decaying organic matter such as plants and oats, maggots of the blow fly feed on small dead animals and the contents of garbage cans. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, “maggots sometimes occur in soil near buildings in cities; their food source is not known. Eight “waves” of maggots have been distinguished; each wave attacks dead animals in a strict sequence as decay progresses from the newly dead corpse through rigor and putrefaction to mummification. Although some maggots appear only during a clearly defined stage of animal decomposition, the large voracious maggots of many blow flies feed on any animal matter, including living tissues.”

Maggots have a number of medical uses. They assist in the prevention of infection by cleaning away dead flesh. They also produce allatonin. This chemical compound is naturally produced by many organisms, and used in medications to treat a number of skin conditions such as impetigo, acne, and eczema. Maggots were also used during the civil war to remove decaying tissue and prevent bacterial growth in open wounds.

Although maggots can be a powerful preventative medicine, they can also destroy healthy tissue. When maggots are or have been used in the medical profession, it is done so only under controlled conditions by a skilled professional. If a maggot is or has been eating away at any part of your body, it is possible that the creature may have eaten away at healthy tissue. This may cause permanent damage to your tissues, so it is extremely critical that you contact a doctor immediately or go to an emergency room. The severity of your condition cannot be determined online or without the trained eye and techniques of a medical professional.

When you visit a doctor or emergency room, here’s what you can expect: A doctor will clean the infected wound with a high grade solution and extract any maggots from the area. He will then apply a topical antibiotic and you may have to take oral medications for up to 6 weeks or more. If your wound is serious, you may require stitches. So again, if you have come in contact with a maggot or maggots, you must visit a doctor immediately.

Sources:

Encyclopedia Britannica, www.britannica.com

The only type of parasite that grows in human hair is the eyebrow mite (Demodex Folliculorum). Eyebrow mites are relatively harmless, but studies suggest that they may cause a small amount of hair loss. Fortunately, all types of human worms and parasites are preventable. To prevent parasites you should take steps to strengthen your own immune system. You should start by eliminating sugar, junk food, saturated fat, alcohol, yeast, tobacco and caffeine.

Steer clear of uncooked or undercooked meats. Store food properly, meaning, do not create hot or warm conditions where parasites can thrive. Also, drink plenty of pure water and exercise daily. Continue reading to learn more about the different types of worms in humans, prevention, and treatment options.

Worms in Humans

There are more than 3,200 types of parasites in existence today and they are divided into the following categories: Cestoda, Nematoda, Protozoa, and Trematoda. Just a few of the different types of parasites that may infect humans include: tapeworms, (Cestodes); hookworms, pinworms, and roundworms (Nematodes); giardia (Protozoa); and flat worms, (Trematoda).

The most common type of worm in humans is the roundworm. It is estimated that one in every four humans is infected with roundworms. It is important to keep in mind, however, that parasites rarely cause any serious (or fatal) complications in Europe and North America. No matter what type of worm the human body may be infected with, whether it’s a bloodworm that somehow made its way into the human digestive system (extremely rare) or a roundworm, the vast majority of parasites cause some of the same unpleasant symptoms.

Symptoms of parasites or worms in humans may include:

Loss of appetite
Abdominal discomfort
Rashes
Insomnia
Eye pain
Protein deficiency
Gas
Constipation
Mental dullness
Fever
Coughing
Nervousness
Vomiting
Nausea
Anemia
Stomach bloating
Bloody stools
Weakness
Chills
Diarrhea
Fatigue

It is important to keep in mind that these symptoms are also common symptoms for many other diseases and conditions, so its best to consult a physician for an accurate diagnosis. A physician will test for parasites by taking a feces sample and examining it for parasites and/or eggs. Fortunately, the vast majority of parasites can be eliminated by using some of the same methods or by ingesting some of the same types of medications or antibiotics.

Parasites can be eliminated from the body through the use of colon cleansers and/or colonics, several rounds of antibiotics or medications as prescribed by a physician, and/or by utilizing a number of different herbal or natural remedies. It’s best to consult an herbalist for the very best herbal remedies to get rid of worms in humans. That said, there are several popular (and effective) remedies consisting of the following combinations of herbs and ingredients:

·Black walnut leaves, wormwood, quassia, cloves, male fern
·Capsicum, wormwood, sage
·Cramp bark, pumpkin seed, capsicum, thyme, garlic
·Black walnut, pine needles, sassafras

In general, herbal remedies should be taken orally for a minimum of two weeks.

Some individuals may complain of re-infection. It is very important to change your eating habits immediately if you suspect a parasite or worm infection. It’s best not to go back to your regular eating habits in order to prevent re-infection. Certain foods, spices, and beverages might help to ward off parasite infections or to keep you from becoming infected through food or water sources. These include:

Cranberry juice
High-fiber foods
Pumpkin seeds
Garlic
Pomegranates
Apple cider vinegar
Figs
Bottled or distilled water
Thoroughly cooked meats and seafood
Organic fruits and vegetables, washed thoroughly

Avoid the following foods and activities if at all possible:

Undercooked meats
Chestnuts
Sugar
Watercress
Refined carbohydrates
Swimming in lakes, rivers, an streams
Using the microwave to cook meats

And finally, never underestimate the power of clean hands. You should always wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom, whether it is in your home or in a public place. In addition, wash kitchen utensils and countertops with hot soapy water after each use and wear gloves when changing your cats litter box or cleaning up after your pets.

Guinea worm is more common in poor rural African villages that are not frequented by tourists. While the infection occurs mostly in Africa, the disease can also be found in Yemen. It can also be found in some of the most remote villages in the Rajastan desert of India.

Guinea worm is caused by a threadlike parasitic worm that grows and matures inside the human body. The worm is called Dracunculus medinensis. Dracunculus medinensis is as thin as a paper clip and it can grow up to a staggering three feet long. Once the larvae mature inside the human body, the Guinea worm exits the body through a painful blister in the skin. This can cause long-term suffering and oftentimes, crippling aftereffects.

People may become infected with Guinea worm after drinking standing water that contains a tiny water flea. The flea might be infected with the tiny larvae of the Guinea worm. The tiny larvae pierce the intestinal, mature into adulthood, then mate during the course of a year. Once the males die off, the female makes her way through the body where she will grow up to as much as three feet. The female will eventually end up near the surface of the skin, typically in the lower limbs.

Guinea worms cause intense swelling and painful, burning blisters. In most cases, the infected will seek out water to soothe the pain. In poor rural African villages, “water” usually means nearby ponds and wells. Once the sufferer enters the water, the blisters will burst and the worm will emerge releasing millions of new larvae into the water. Once the larvae have been released into the water, they are then swallowed by tiny water fleas and the cycle starts all over again.

Other symptoms of Guinea worm include: fever and infection. Most symptoms of Guinea worm do not develop until a year after a person has ingested contaminated water. Fortunately, Guinea worm can be detected by sight.

The adult worm can be seen protruding from a skin sore. While there is no cure for Guinea worm or medications to prevent infection, there are several methods to remove the worms. The Guinea worm can be removed a little at a time by winding it around a small stick and pulling it out. In some cases, the process will take only a few days, in others it might take a few weeks or even a few months.

In some cases, Guinea worm can be surgically removed before the actual wound begins to swell. Antibiotics and antihistamines may be used to reduce swelling and make removal of the worm easier. After a Guinea worm is removed, many people are left with permanent scarring and/or permanent crippling. Unfortunately, most people in infested villages will seek help when it is already too late.

Guinea worm infection can be avoided by using only filtered water or water that has been obtained from a safe source. Even water from ponds and wells can be boiled and filtered through cloth to kill the Guinea worm larvae. Water can also be treated with a larvae-killing chemical. In addition, people with open Guinea worm wounds should stay away from ponds or wells that are used for drinking water.

The horsehair worm belongs to the roundworm family. This unique worm earned the name based on the way it looks. The horsehair worm looks like the thin hair of a horsetail. Horsehair worms are typically dark brown in color, but some are tan, yellow or black. They usually peak during the late summer as well as during the fall months. Finding horsehair worms in odd places is not uncommon. They have been spotted emerging from a cricket on the kitchen floor of homes or in the toilet after a cricket has been dumped there, and they have even been spotted in pet’s water bowls. They can also be found swimming around in lakes, rivers, streams, and garden ponds.

The life cycle begins when a male and female horsehair worm mate in soil or freshwater. The female can lay as many as 10 million eggs. She typically lays her eggs in water plants. Once the eggs hatch into larvae, they live inside cysts in vegetation — vegetation that is ingested by crickets, grasshoppers and other insects or bugs. Once ingested, the cysts dissolve inside of the grasshopper or cricket gut. The parasite makes its way into the body cavity of the insect where it absorbs nutrients from the insects’ food through the body wall.

The horsehair worm is so thin that it can develop and grow to its maximum length inside the body cavity of small cricket. However, the usual length of time that a horsehair worm will develop inside the host is 4-20 weeks. Amazingly, once the horsehair worm reaches maturity inside of the host, it can live out the rest of its life from the nutrients and energy obtained from the host. Another amazing thing about the horsehair worm is its ability to manipulate its body into many forms. The horsehair worm can even twist itself into a ball that resembles a Gordian knot, hence the name, Gordian Worm.

When the horsehair worm is ready to exit its host, usually when the host is near or in water, it will wiggle out of the nearest opening. This is not always the case, however. They have also been known to exit on dry land. Once the horsehair worm exits the body of an insect (and if it does not find another host), this emerging actually completes the life cycle. If you dare, you can witness the horsehair worm exiting the body of a cricket here. Warning: this is not a pretty sight.

How to Get Rid of Horsehair Worms

Horsehair worms can only parasitize suitable insect hosts, so after crushing pests such as crickets, millipedes, or centipedes, the worms will quickly exit the body and crawl for cover. Unless you kill them right after exiting the body, they parasitize another insect. That said, because they are not harmful to humans and because they actually kill harmful pests such as grasshoppers, crickets, cockroaches, beetles, millipedes, centipedes, snails, slugs, etc., no control measures are recommended.

If you have a horsehair worm problem, you can:

• Use plain water to get rid of them (you can spray them)
• Install a mesh filter or screen to keep the worms from water pumped from a surface supply such as a farm pond or canal
• Treat domestic water supply systems by filtering and treating with chemicals under the direction of the local health department

To keep parasitized insects out of your home, you should caulk or seal entry sites. If you kill an insect, make sure you take it out of the home immediately. If you flush it, the horsehair worm will escape from the insect’s body through the toilet. You can also place an insecticide barrier around your house foundation to kill any arthropod pests infested with horsehair worms.

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent stomach worms. For pets, one of the most important ways to prevent a serious stomach worm infection is to have your pet screened for worms twice per year. If your dog is considered high-risk for worms, you should have him screened more than twice a year. High-risk dogs typically live in condensed urban areas and they usually live in a home with more than one pet. Show pets and hunting dogs are also considered high-risk. Caring for a dog with worms should be done only under the care of a vet. Most non-prescription medications don’t work. Your vet will have access to a number of cutting edge preventatives that are extremely effective against the most aggressive types of parasites such as roundworm, whipworm, hookworm, and heartworm.

It is important to keep in mind that fleas are a source of certain types of tapeworms. When a dog accidentally swallows an infected flea, the tapeworms can hatch in the dog’s intestines. These types of tapeworms can also be transmitted to humans as well. Animal carcasses such as rodents and rabbits may also contain tapeworms, so be sure to keep your pets away from them at all costs. It’s also a good idea to keep your dog clean and well groomed. You should also dispose of dog feces immediately. Never leave it in piles around your yard, dog run, etc. Whipworm and roundworm eggs can remain infectious for years, and hookworm larvae can multiply in the soil in and around a dog run.

If your dog shows symptoms of stomach worms, please contact your vet immediately.

While there are many symptoms of worms in canines, finding worms in your dog’s feces is one of the most obvious symptoms of “parasitic worms.” At any given time, your dog can have any number of parasitic worms in his system including the half-inch-long hookworm or a tapeworm. Tape worms can reach up to a whopping three feet long if left untreated. In fact, a single tapeworm can have as many as 90 segments. Other types of parasitic worms common to dogs include: roundworm, whipworm, and the heartworm. Hookworms, tapeworms, roundworms, and whipworms live in the dog’s intestines and the heartworm lives in the dog’s heart and in the blood vessels that lead from the heart to the lungs.

In addition to finding worms in your dog’s feces, other symptoms to look for include:

Weight loss
Dull coat
Weakness
A change in your dog’s appetite
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Distended abdomen in puppies
Inability to exercise
Coughing and hiccupping (due to heartworm)

It’s also important to recognize what the different types parasitic worms look like. Round worms look like spaghetti and tapeworm segments look like grains of rice. In addition to your dog’s food, dog worms can be found in on or buried in your dog’s fur, around his anus, around his paws (from scratching) and it is not uncommon to find them in your dog’s ears.

Fortunately, there are ways to prevent dog worms. One of the most important ways to prevent a serious dog worm infection is to have your pet screened for worms twice per year. If your dog is considered high-risk for worms, you should have him screened more than twice a year. High-risk dogs typically live in condensed urban areas and they usually live in a home with more than one pet. Show pets and hunting dogs are also considered high-risk. Caring for a dog with worms should be done only under the care of a vet. Most non-prescription medications don’t work. Your vet will have access to a number of cutting edge preventatives that are extremely effective against the most aggressive types of parasites such as roundworm, whipworm, hookworm, and heartworm.

It is important to keep in mind that fleas are a source of certain types of tapeworms. When a dog accidentally swallows an infected flea, the tapeworms can hatch in the dog’s intestines. These types of tapeworms can also be transmitted to humans as well. Animal carcasses such as rodents and rabbits may also contain tapeworms, so be sure to keep your pets away from them at all costs.

It’s also a good idea to keep your dog clean and well groomed. You should also dispose of dog feces immediately. Never leave it in piles around your yard, dog run, etc. Whipworm and roundworm eggs can remain infectious for years, and hookworm larvae can multiply in the soil in and around a dog run.

If your dog shows symptoms of heartworm or intestinal parasites, again, please contact your vet immediately.