Skip to content

Tapeworm

Top of the page

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.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.