Tapeworm infection - hymenolepis: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Emergency assessment is appropriate if someone collapses, becomes confused, or cannot stay awake.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice if a child has ongoing diarrhoea, is not gaining weight, or is unusually tired.
People who are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have major ongoing health conditions should also get advice before taking any antiparasitic medicine.
Get urgent medical help for signs of significant dehydration or another serious digestive problem, including:
Very little urine or no urine
A very dry mouth with marked weakness
Repeated vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
Blood in the stool or black, tar-like stool
Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain
Fainting, confusion, or unusual difficulty waking
Severe symptoms in a baby or young child
These signs are not typical of a mild hymenolepis infection and may have another cause.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a fever with a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, or severe headache
has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have persistent diarrhoea, unexplained abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, or weight loss.
Mention any known tapeworm exposure, recent travel, unsafe water, or rodent and insect problems.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tapeworm infection - hymenolepis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.