Re: parasites in lungs

Hello - Below this is the official report from the CDC on Ascaris (roundworm) infections. They are very common and if left untreated can cause a whole lot of problems. Systemic circulation means that the eggs travel in the bloodstream to the lungs. This incubating and hatching in the lungs is what causes respitory and sinus problems. The larvae are coughed up in phelm - even from clearing the throat - and are swallowed - they then travel into the intestines to become adults. Ascaris are notorious for traveling throughout the body - they are the ones that folks feel "moving" the most.


FROM THE CDC:

Adult worms live in the lumen of the small intestine. A female may produce approximately 200,000 eggs per day, which are passed with the feces . Unfertilized eggs may be ingested but are not infective. Fertile eggs embryonate and become infective after 18 days to several weeks , depending on the environmental conditions (optimum: moist, warm, shaded soil). After infective eggs are swallowed , the larvae hatch , invade the intestinal mucosa, and are carried via the portal, then systemic circulation to the lungs . The larvae mature further in the lungs (10 to 14 days), penetrate the alveolar walls, ascend the bronchial tree to the throat, and are swallowed . Upon reaching the small intestine, they develop into adult worms . Between 2 and 3 months are required from ingestion of the infective eggs to oviposition by the adult female. Adult worms can live 1 to 2 years.

Geographic Distribution:
The most common human helminthic infection. Worldwide distribution. Highest prevalence in tropical and subtropical regions, and areas with inadequate sanitation. Occurs in rural areas of the southeastern United States.