Roundworms can infest the human gut, where they live, feed and reproduce. They don’t often cause any symptoms, but are more likely to in large numbers.
A roundworm infection – also sometimes known as ascariasis or ascaris – is usually easy to treat. Roundworms are parasites. They use the human body to stay alive, feed and reproduce.
A roundworm infection doesn’t usually cause any noticeable symptoms. People usually see their GP because they’ve seen a worm in their stools (faeces). Less commonly, symptoms can include a high temperature and dry cough 4-16 days after swallowing the eggs. If a large number of eggs have been ingested, or if the worms move from the small intestine to other parts of the body, they can cause serious complications, such as a bowel obstruction. However, in England, these types of complications are rare. Read more about the symptoms of a roundworm infection.
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