Trichuriasis

Trichuriasis, also called whipworm infection, is an intestinal parasitic infection caused by the worm Trichuris trichiura, which lodges in the large intestine. It is usually transmitted by consuming food or water contaminated with the parasite's eggs.

Common symptoms: In mild infections it may go unnoticed; when the parasite load is greater, abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, straining, and, in children, an impact on growth appear.

Factors that favor infection: Poor hygiene conditions, eating poorly washed vegetables, and contact with contaminated soil, especially in warm and humid areas.

Which specialist treats it? Its evaluation falls to the infectious disease specialist or the general practitioner, and in the pediatric population to the pediatrician; when the urinary system is affected, the pediatric nephrologist may be added. In the face of diarrhea that does not resolve or symptoms that recur, the most sensible thing is to seek professional guidance to confirm the origin of the condition.