Threadworm Treatment in Neath

BOOK A FREE NHS COMMON AILMENT APPOINTMENT FOR THREADWORM TREATMENT

Threadworms are very common — especially in children — and can spread quickly in families. If you or your child has an itchy bottom, especially at night, we’re here to help. At The Health Dispensary and Neath Pharmacy, our pharmacists can provide free NHS treatment and advice for threadworms to anyone over 6 months of age.

What Are Threadworms?

Threadworms are tiny, white worms that live in the gut and lay eggs around the anus at night, causing itching. You may notice them in your child’s poo or around their bottom. They are not usually harmful but can cause discomfort and sleep disruption.

Common signs include:

• Itchy bottom (especially at night)
• Trouble sleeping
• Seeing small white worms in stools
• Irritability or difficulty concentrating in children

How We Can Help

We can provide treatment for you and your household if threadworms are confirmed or strongly suspected. This includes a single dose of medicine (mebendazole) and advice on hygiene routines to stop reinfection. Everyone over 6 months in the household should usually be treated together.

Simple Steps to Stop the Spread

• Wash hands regularly – especially after using the toilet and before meals
• Clean under fingernails and keep nails short
• Avoid nail biting or sucking fingers
• Wash bedding, towels, nightwear and soft toys regularly
• Wear close-fitting underpants at night and change them daily
• Shower or bathe first thing in the morning to remove eggs

When to See a GP

Most cases can be treated easily at the pharmacy. However, we’ll refer you to a GP if:
• The person affected is under 6 months old
• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding and hygiene measures aren’t enough
• Infections keep coming back
• The symptoms are unusual or unclear

Treatment and Follow-Up

You’ll receive a medicine to take once (mebendazole), and a second dose to take 2 weeks later to prevent reinfection. Alongside this, hygiene measures should continue for 2 weeks. If using hygiene alone, continue for 6 weeks.

Book an Appointment

You can book your NHS threadworm consultation online or visit one of our Neath branches. If NHS treatment isn’t suitable, private options may be available – just ask.

FAQs about Threadworms

Q: Can I get free treatment for threadworms?
A: Yes — if you’re eligible under the NHS Common Ailments Scheme and over 6 months old.

Q: Should the whole family be treated?
A: Yes — threadworms spread easily, even without symptoms. Treat everyone over 6 months.

Q: Do I need to stay off school or work?
A: No — but good hygiene is essential to prevent spreading the infection.

Q: What if it keeps coming back?
A: Our pharmacists can help with prevention tips. If it’s a frequent issue, we may refer you to a GP.