How can i tell if i have pinworms and can i treat it myself?

Microscopic exam: It requires microscopic examination of material around the anus and is not a do it yourself process. Please see your doctor for evaluation and prescription.

Don't treat yourself: PInworms are found in the stool. You may need help to find them as they mostly come out at night into the rectal area. You need to inspect every stool and maybe have some one inspect your rectal area at night after having gone to bed. Many times can get them on a piece of tape by putting the tape on to the rectal area and see under a scope. Treatment is by Rx only.

Itchy?: Pinworms are not uncommon, especially in kids, and families with dogs. Spread fecal-oral route. worm comes out at night, deposits eggs at anus, causes itch, scratch, and swallow pattern. Diagnosed with "Scotch tape" test; Rxd with effective, safe prescription med. Home remedies less reliable. Better to see doc, get evaluated, Rxd.

Test done at lab: You may see little white threadlike worms in your rectal or vaginal area. Itching in those areas is the most common symptom of pinworms. More often you cannot see the worms. In that case your doctor can order a test to look for the eggs. If you do have pinworms, you need a prescription for the treatment, which is an oral pill. You should call your doctor to discuss.

Hard to say: There are OTC treatments, but if your itch is caused by something else it wouldn't help. Find a few thread like whitish worms on your anus,less than an inch long, maybe you have it. But it is uncommon in adults unless you have access/care for young toddlers. Food allergies,anal yeast,strep A infection, etc all cause perianal itching.Self treating wouldn't hurt but may be a waste of time.