Pinworms
Pinworms are tiny white worms that live in the intestine and lay eggs around the anus at night. Pinworms symptoms include itching around the bottom, worse at night, and restless sleep. They are the most common worm infection in the US and are easy to treat.
What Is It
Pinworm eggs spread from fingers to mouth after scratching, and through shared bedding, toys, and bathrooms. They are most common in school age children and their families. Pinworms are not a sign of poor hygiene. Pets do not spread them.
Symptoms
- Itching around the anus, worse at night
- Restless sleep or waking at night
- Irritability
- Tiny white threads seen around the bottom at night
- Itching or irritation in the vaginal area in girls
- Belly pain or nausea in some children
Not sure it’s pinworms? Itching in many areas of the body with a rash may be scabies. Belly pain with fever or vomiting has other causes, covered under stomach pain in children.
Treatment
At your visit: Pinworms are often diagnosed by symptoms, and a simple tape test at home can confirm them. Treatment is a medicine that kills the worms, with a second dose 2 weeks later. The whole household is usually treated at the same time.
At home:
- Wash hands well, especially after the bathroom and before eating
- Keep fingernails short and discourage scratching
- Wash bedding, pajamas, and towels in hot water
- Bathe in the morning to remove eggs laid overnight
Treatment clears most pinworm infections within 2 weeks.
When to Get Care for Pinworms
Most pinworm cases can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.
FAQ
What are the first signs of pinworms?
The first sign of pinworms is usually itching around the bottom at night, along with restless sleep. Sometimes tiny white worms can be seen.
How do you check for pinworms?
Check for pinworms by pressing clear tape around the anus first thing in the morning before bathing. A provider can look at the tape for eggs.
Are pinworms contagious?
Pinworms are contagious. Eggs spread from fingers to mouth and through bedding, toys, and bathrooms. Treat the whole household.
How long do pinworms last?
Pinworms clear within about 2 weeks of treatment. A second dose is needed 2 weeks after the first to kill newly hatched worms.
Can urgent care treat pinworms?
Yes, urgent care can treat pinworms. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment for your household. No appointment or referral is needed.
Can adults get pinworms?
Yes, adults can get pinworms, usually from a child in the home. Adults are treated the same way.
Last reviewed October 2026
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