Newark, DE
A 51-year-old female asked:
Can a worm or parasites infection cause anemia?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Christian Schultheisanswered
Hematology and Oncology 26 years experience
Yes: Worms can attach to the intestinal wall and can cause bleeding.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Ronald Shermananswered
Infectious Disease 40 years experience
Absolutely: Parasites like intestinal worms can cause anemia, usually by causing bleeding into the gut. Chronic infections can also cause anemia through low blood production, not active bleeding. However, this is less commonly the reason for anemia associated with worms and parasites.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
Newark, DE
A 51-year-old female asked:
Can worms or parasites cause anemia?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in

Dr. Elden Randanswered
Cardiology 23 years experience
Yes: Many parasites can cause blood loss due to decreased absorption of nutrients including iron, leading to anemia. Some include hookworm, whipworm, and schistosoma.
Here is a good link to check out.
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/22/4/498.abstract.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.1k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 19, 2019
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