Fatigue and Anemia
Signs of extreme fatigue and general physical discomfort can be indicative of an intestinal worm infection. Hookworms and whipworms attach themselves to the intestinal walls and may cause blood loss. Prolonged bleeding can eventually result in anemia, typically iron-deficiency anemia. Additionally, the fish tapeworm can cause considerable vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to both anemia and fatigue.
Parasitic Worms and Respiratory Issues
Parasitic worms have the potential to induce respiratory problems such as acute coughing and lung congestion. One example is the flatworms that cause paragonimiasis, an infection primarily affecting the lungs. Consumption of undercooked crab that is contaminated with these worms can lead to the development of paragonimiasis. Although the infection initially originates in the intestinal tract, the worms can migrate to the lungs, resulting in symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and discomfort in the chest. It is worth noting that paragonimiasis is relatively rare in the United States, but it remains prevalent in other countries. The majority of parasites responsible for respiratory issues are commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical regions.