Photo: Jonaorle

What are the long strings in poop?

medicalnewstoday.com - What to know about rope worm and its treatment

At what age do you stop mammograms?

This routine continues until they turn about 75 years of age or if, for whatever reason, they have limited life expectancy. At that point, whether...

Last updated Apr 30, 2021

What time I should stop eating?

Get Meal Timing Right with RISE There's no set time you should stop eating before bed, but as a guide, you should aim to have your last meal two to...

Last updated Jan 7, 2022

Imagine Your Moment Of Freedom!

Fluxactive Complete is conveniently packed with over 14 essential prostate powerhouse herbs, vitamins and grade A nutrients which work synergistically to help you support a healthy prostate faster

Learn More »

Promotion

Rope worms are long, rope-like structures that sometimes occur in the intestines. According to some scientists, they are parasitic worms, but it is more likely that they are nothing more than a buildup of intestinal mucus and other debris. This article outlines the two different theories on rope worms. It also discusses diagnosis, treatment, and when to contact a doctor. Is it a parasitic worm? Share on Pinterest Martin Prescott | Getty Images According to one proposed theory, rope worms are a type of parasite. In 2013, researchers published an article outlining the five distinct life stages of a rope worm. According to the article, which has not undergone peer review, the rope worm may begin forming in almost any part of the body, but it eventually migrates to the intestines. In the initial stages, the worm consists of slimy mucus. By the fifth and final stage, the worm resembles a single string of viscous mucus measuring approximately 1 meter in length. In another 2013 article, the same research group states that the rope worm uses bubbles for propulsion and movement. The authors add that the bubbles create suction that helps the worm attach to the intestinal wall, preventing it from passing out of the body during defecation. However, there are no other studies on rope worms, so it is not possible to confirm these theories. Is it mucus? A more likely explanation is that rope worms are long strands of intestinal mucus and other debris. Similar to the parasite theory, there is limited evidence to back up this claim. In a recent letter to the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, a group of researchers stated that misidentification of mucous membranes and other debris as worms is common. They specifically mentioned that rope worms are nothing more than mucus or other debris that is present in the intestines. One of the most prominent proponents of the rope worm theory even tested the DNA of a “rope worm” specimen and found that it consisted of 99% human DNA. This seems to be a likely indication that these are not living creatures. Diagnosis Rope worms may pass out of the body during an enema or another procedure to clear the intestines. If rope worms are parasitic, it may be possible to diagnose them using standard procedures for identifying parasitic infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , doctors diagnose most parasites using one or more of the following tests: stool sample examination

endoscopy or colonoscopy

Can I eat pumpkin seeds during periods?

Pumpkin seeds are known to contain high levels of a component called tryptophan, which naturally boosts the serotonin levels of the body, helping...

Last updated Aug 14, 2021

Which fruit gives instant energy?

Bananas Bananas may be the best quick snack for sustained energy. While bananas are a good natural source of sugar, they are also rich in fibers...

Last updated Oct 23, 2022

Imagine Your Moment Of Freedom!

Fluxactive Complete is conveniently packed with over 14 essential prostate powerhouse herbs, vitamins and grade A nutrients which work synergistically to help you support a healthy prostate faster

Learn More »

Promotion

blood tests

X-rays or other types of imaging

Treatment As there is no scientific consensus on what a rope worm actually is, there is no standard treatment. It is also not clear whether treatment is necessary at all. According to the researchers who believe that these worms are parasites, the treatment for rope worms is an enema using eucalyptus and lemon juice. Removing the rope worm reportedly reduces constipation and associated symptoms. Parasites that are scientifically identified are treated with antiparasitic medications, such as albendazole or mebendazole. The CDC recommends such medications for a different type of intestinal worm called Ascaris. A person should talk with a doctor if they experience symptoms of constipation that do not go away. These may include : abdominal bloating or swelling

painful or difficult bowel movements

passing hard, dry, or lumpy stools

passing fewer than two stools per week A person should talk with a doctor if they think that they may have worms. Parasitic worms can cause the following symptoms: stomach pain and swelling

constipation

diarrhea

fever

aches

nausea

Prevention The lack of consensus on what rope worms actually are means that it is not clear whether or how a person can prevent them. However, in general, people can help avoid parasitic worm infestations by: Drinking clean water: When visiting areas with potential water contamination, people should only drink water from sealed bottles and avoid adding ice to their drinks. When visiting areas with potential water contamination, people should only drink water from sealed bottles and avoid adding ice to their drinks. Washing their hands thoroughly: People should wash their hands after handling soil and after handling or working with animals. People should wash their hands after handling soil and after handling or working with animals. Swimming in clean water: People should swim only in chlorinated pools and avoid any body of water that may contain sewage.

medicalnewstoday.com - What to know about rope worm and its treatment

At what age is lymphoma most common?

Unlike most cancers, rates of Hodgkin lymphoma are highest among teens and young adults (ages 15 to 39 years) and again among older adults (ages 75...

Last updated Jul 10, 2021

What age do most people get lymphoma?

Unlike most cancers, rates of Hodgkin lymphoma are highest among teens and young adults (ages 15 to 39 years) and again among older adults (ages 75...

Last updated May 11, 2021

Promotion

What is the first stage of prostate cancer?

Stage 1 is the least advanced form of prostate cancer. Cancer in this stage is small and hasn't spread past the prostate gland. It's characterized...

Last updated Dec 29, 2018

Promotion

How can I raise my testosterone in 2 weeks?

The best way to improve testosterone levels is by adopting some lifestyle habits that can improve overall health and well-being. Getting enough...

Last updated Jan 6, 2021