Q: My 5-year-old daughter woke up crying with severe anal itching and I found a pinworm. I gave her deworming medicine, what should I do now?
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 5-year-old daughter suddenly woke up crying in the middle of the night because her anus was extremely itchy. I quickly gave her an over-the-counter deworming pill that we usually take once a year. While checking her, I actually found what looks like a pinworm crawling between her vagina and anus. Since I already gave her the deworming medicine, when will it take effect? Is there anything else I need to do while we wait?
Answer:
It must have been very startling to see your child wake up crying from severe itching in the middle of the night.
Current Situation
Since you directly observed a suspected pinworm and have already administered the deworming medication, the medicine will typically begin working within 24 hours. Most of the adult worms will die within 2 to 3 days.
What to Do at Home Right Now
Keep the anal area clean: Gently wash the area with lukewarm water and dry it completely. Keep soap usage to a minimum to avoid extra irritation.
Prevent scratching: Cut your daughter's fingernails short and have her wear thin, long cotton pants over her underwear to prevent her from directly scratching the skin.
Launder bedding and clothing: Wash her underwear and bedding daily in hot water (60°C/140°F or higher) and dry them in the sunlight if possible.
Strict hand hygiene: Ensure the entire family washes their hands thoroughly with soap, especially after using the bathroom and before meals.
Soothe the itch: If the itching is severe, apply a thin layer of a gentle ointment like Vaseline around the anus to create a protective barrier and reduce scratching irritation.
Cautions After Taking Medication
Most deworming medications only kill adult worms, not the eggs. Because of this, a second dose is typically recommended 2 weeks later to prevent reinfection.
It is highly recommended that all family members take the medication at the same time, even if they do not have symptoms.
You may notice dead worms in her stool for 2 to 3 days after taking the medicine; this is a completely normal reaction.
When to See a Doctor
Please consult your pediatrician if any of the following occur:
The itching does not improve at all or worsens after 2 to 3 days.
The area around the anus becomes red, swollen, oozes, or bleeds.
She develops abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting.
She experiences vaginal discharge or pain during urination (pinworms can sometimes migrate to the vaginal area).
Next Steps
Please write down the exact name and dosage of the deworming medication you gave her. Follow up with your pediatrician to confirm the schedule for the second dose (usually in 2 weeks) and to discuss the treatment plan for the entire family. For now, focus on strict hygiene and handwashing, and monitor her symptoms closely over the next few days.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
