A growing number of influencers, led by figures like Kim Rogers, promote anti-parasitic cleanses as a solution to various health symptoms. Rogers, known as “The Queen of Worms,” has gained popularity on social media by claiming that most people harbor parasites without knowing it, notes the National Public Radio (NPR).
The increase in consultations with specialized doctors has been well-known, driven by public statements by celebrities, such as supermodel Heidi Klum, who promote these cleanses.
Even singer Jordin Sparks said in a podcast appearance: “I think 95% of us have parasites. We’ve never had a deep cleanse.”
In contrast, experts, such as Dr. Abhay Satoskar and Dr. Peter Hotez, warn that the vast majority of related symptoms are not due to parasitic infections and that self-diagnosis can be dangerous.
Reality of parasitic infections
Although parasites exist and can cause health problems, they are rare in the United States and require professional diagnosis. Typical infections, such as giardiasis, are treatable with specific medications.
Influencers who promote this type of cleanse, like Rogers, are not doctors and advise that people should get an anti-parasitic cleanse three or four times a year.
NPR tried to get an interview with Rogers, and she declined the request.
Risks associated with cleanings
Deworming cleaning products, often not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), may contain toxic ingredients.
Specialists point out that these cleanses can cause adverse effects such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, in addition to lacking clinical evidence to support their effectiveness.
Related disorders
Misinformation spread by influencers can lead to misdiagnoses, including the phenomenon of delusional parasitosis, where individuals convinced they are infested make risky health decisions.
Any health symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor and not through unproven cleanses. An evidence-based medical approach is essential to addressing parasite-related health problems.
Diagnostic tests to identify parasites
Diagnostic tests to identify parasitic infections vary depending on the type of parasite and the location of the infection, but the main ones are:
Stool examination (egg and parasite analysis)
- It is the most common test for intestinal parasites.
- Detects eggs, cysts, larvae or adult parasites in feces.
- They are recommended 3 samples from different days to increase sensitivity.
- Detects helminths (worms) and protozoa such as Giardia and Entamoeba.
Blood test
- Serology: Looks for antibodies or antigens produced against the parasite.
- blood smear: detects blood parasites such as malaria, filariasis or babesiosis through microscopy.
- Not all parasitic infections are detected with blood.
Scotch tape take a look at
- Specific for pinworms (enterobiasis).
- Clear adhesive tape is applied around the anus upon awakening to collect eggs.
- It is recommended to repeat 3 days in a row,
Endoscopy/Colonoscopy
- It is used when stool tests are negative, but parasitosis is suspected.
- It allows you to directly visualize the intestine and take samples.
Imaging tests
- X-ray, CT or MRI to detect organic lesions caused by parasites.
- Useful in cases of cysticercosis, hydatidosis or other tissue infections.
Molecular tests (PCR)
- They detect genetic materials of the parasite with high sensitivity.
- They are increasingly used for precise diagnosis.
The doctor selects the test based on symptoms, travel history, and the type of parasite suspected.
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