WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Tapeworm

A tapeworm is a parasite that attaches to the walls of the intestine after it enters a person's digestive tract. A person may become infected with tapeworms after eating raw or undercooked meat or fish that contains the worms.

A tapeworm infection may not cause any symptoms. If symptoms are present, they may include diarrhea, pain in the upper abdomen, weight loss, or seizures.

Medicine is needed to get rid of a tapeworm infection. Infection can be prevented by thoroughly freezing or cooking meat and fish.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Last Revised September 2, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 02, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.