Red flags & when to go in person for Pinworms

Audience: pediatric

Pinworms are common intestinal parasites that often affect children. They usually cause itching around the anus, especially at night, and can be treated at home. However, sometimes symptoms may worsen or complications can occur, requiring in-person medical care. This guide explains when to seek in-person care for pinworms, what signs to watch for, and how telemedicine can help. It also covers how to prepare for a telemedicine visit and what to expect afterward. Remember, telemedicine can support education and initial advice but is not a substitute for a physical exam when serious symptoms appear.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain — seek in-person care promptly to rule out complications.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) — may indicate infection needing physical exam and treatment.
• Blood in stool or vomit — urgent evaluation needed to identify cause and provide care.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing common symptoms of pinworms.
• Providing guidance on hygiene and home treatment.
• Advising when to seek in-person care.
• Answering questions about pinworm prevention and management.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination or diagnostic tests.
• Treating severe symptoms or complications.
• Managing other causes of abdominal pain or bleeding.
• Providing emergency care for dehydration or high fever.

What Are Pinworms?

Pinworms are tiny white worms that live in the intestines. They spread easily among children, especially in schools or daycare. The main symptom is itching around the anus, which may cause trouble sleeping. Pinworms are usually harmless and can be treated with medicine that kills the worms.

Common Symptoms of Pinworms

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If your child has these symptoms, pinworms may be the cause, but other conditions can look similar.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Most pinworm cases can be managed at home or through telemedicine. However, go to a healthcare facility if your child has:

These signs may mean complications or other health issues needing a physical exam.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine providers can:

However, telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or tests needed to rule out other conditions.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

This helps the healthcare provider give the best advice.

Aftercare and Follow-Up

After your telemedicine visit:

Good follow-up helps ensure full recovery and prevents reinfection.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your child's symptoms and when they started.
• Note any treatments or medicines already used.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space for the tele-visit.
• Have a device with camera and microphone ready.
• Be ready to describe any other health conditions your child has.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment and hygiene instructions given.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms daily.
• Keep bedding, clothes, and toys clean to prevent spread.
• Schedule follow-up if symptoms do not improve.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

How do children get pinworms?

Pinworms spread when children accidentally swallow tiny eggs from contaminated hands, surfaces, or objects. This often happens when children scratch the itchy area and then touch their mouth or food without washing hands.

Can pinworms be treated without medicine?

Good hygiene helps prevent and reduce pinworm spread, but medicine is usually needed to fully get rid of the worms. Treatment often includes a course of antiparasitic medication for the child and sometimes family members.

How can I prevent my child from getting pinworms again?

Prevent reinfection by:

Sources

1. Pinworm Infection — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Enterobiasis (Pinworm Infection) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Pinworms — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pinworm Infection — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical attention.