Symptoms.—These worms (parasites) are found at all ages. They are not uncommon in children, and may be found in nursing children. They may cause excessive appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain or sometimes anemia. The knowledge of the presence of this worm may cause great nervousness or depression. The presence of the segment in the stools proves their presence in the bowels.
Treatment, preventive.—This is most important. Careful attention should be given to three points: First, all tapeworm segments should be burned. They should never be thrown into the water-closet or outside; secondly, special inspection of all meat; and, thirdly, cooking the meat sufficiently to kill the parasites.
MOTHERS' REMEDIES.—1. Tape Worms, Pumpkin Seed Tea for.—"One pint pumpkin seeds skinned and steeped. Add water enough to make three tumblers. Take one tumbler every half hour, then a good dose of castor oil. The worm will come with oil. My mother helped prepare the seeds and saw the tapeworm which came from a woman as a result of this dose."
2. Tape Worms, Another good Remedy for.—
"Powdered Kamala 3 drams
Syrup simple 3 ounces
Two doses of this mixture hardly ever fails to bring the worm. Give oil and turpentine two hours after the last dose." Of the oil and turpentine an average dose would be a half ounce of castor oil and fifteen drops of turpentine.
3. Tape Worm, Ontario Mother's Remedy for.—"Don't eat until very hungry (extremely so), then eat one-half pint of pumpkin seeds. This is good and will remove the worm every time." This remedy is different from the above in that you eat the seeds instead of making a tea.
4. Tape Worm, Successful Remedy for Children or Adult.—
"Turpentine 15 drops
Castor Oil 1 teaspoonful
Milk 1 teacupful
Mix and for adult take at one dose. If not successful repeat the next day.
For child under ten years, one-half the quantity."