Tape Worm?

[Pippa]

We have been told that my DH has tape worm. Does anyone know much about it? We have to go back to the GP to discuss treatment but I was hoping to see if I can find out if anyone knows of some natural remedies to cure it? Has anyone else had experience with this?

[Bronnie]

oh my gosh! while i don't medicate unless absolutely necessary, in the case of tape worm, i would consider that absolutely necessary. poor dh!

[Asha]

What kind of tapeworm? There are few different types. The common flea tapeworm that cats and dogs often get is transmittable to humans via ingesting an infected flea (which acts as the host) As you can imagine, it isn't all that common and usually occurs in children. Infection can cause some gastointestinal symptoms but generally isn't as serious as the hydadid type. The rice looking segments of the common flea tapeworm are sometimes visible in the faeces.
On the other hand, the hydadid tapeworm is much more serious as it can cause organ cysts in the human. It can be transmitted via infected meat product and also I think by faecal means (not 100% about that)
I am not sure of the exac t species of tapeworm but some of them grow to huge sizes within the human body, I'm talking metres! These might be the overseas varities though, I know there are some nasty ones in places like South America etc.
I always prefer natural wherever possible too but I agree with Bronnie on this one, it is one for the big guns.
Do you have pets? If you have a family vet you could speak to, he or she will be a much better source of information than a doctor re the types of tapeworms in Australia and also their lifecycle times etc. Obviously a doctor will still be in charge of a treatment plan but vets are very knowledgable in the area of zoonotic disease (disease spread via animals) and will fill in any gaps left by your doctor. hope this helps

[Marguerite]

Oh my.

I hope the treatment works and fast. Sounds insidious.