Threadworm
Threadworm Treatment in Neath – Free NHS Advice & Support
If you or your child has an itchy bottom, especially at night, it could be threadworms — a common and easily treated condition. Our NHS threadworm service in Neath provides free treatment and expert advice for eligible patients. There’s no need to wait for a GP appointment — just visit The Health Dispensary or Neath Pharmacy.
Book online or pop in to see our friendly pharmacists today.
What Are Threadworms?
Threadworms are tiny, white worms that live in the gut and lay eggs around the bottom (anus) at night, causing itching. You may spot them in stools or around your child’s bottom. They are not dangerous but can cause irritation, disturbed sleep, and discomfort — especially in children.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Itchy bottom (particularly at night)
- Trouble sleeping or restlessness
- Seeing small white worms in the poo
- Irritability or difficulty concentrating
How We Can Help
Our pharmacists can provide free NHS treatment for threadworms for anyone over 6 months old.
We’ll assess your symptoms and recommend treatment with mebendazole — a single-dose medicine that kills the worms — plus advice on hygiene measures to stop reinfection.
Everyone in the household aged over 6 months should usually be treated at the same time.
Simple Steps to Stop the Spread
- Wash hands often, especially after using the toilet and before meals
- Clean under fingernails and keep them short
- Avoid nail biting or thumb sucking
- Wash bedding, towels, nightwear, and soft toys regularly
- Wear close-fitting underwear at night and change daily
- Shower or bathe first thing in the morning to remove eggs
When to See a GP
Most cases can be treated in the pharmacy. We’ll refer you to a GP if:
- The person affected is under 6 months old
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and hygiene measures aren’t working
- Infections keep coming back frequently
- Symptoms are unclear or unusual
Treatment and Follow-Up
Treatment usually involves:
- A single dose of mebendazole for each household member aged 6 months and over
- A second dose 2 weeks later to prevent reinfection
- Continuing hygiene measures for at least 2 weeks (or 6 weeks if not taking medicine)
Book an Appointment
You can book your NHS threadworm appointment in Neath online or visit one of our pharmacy branches.
If NHS treatment isn’t suitable, we can also offer safe over-the-counter alternatives.
FAQs – Threadworms
Can I get free treatment for threadworms?
Yes — if you’re eligible under the NHS Common Ailments Scheme and over 6 months old, treatment is free.
Should the whole family be treated?
Yes — threadworms spread easily, even if others don’t have symptoms. Everyone over 6 months should usually be treated.
Do I need to stay off school or work?
No — but it’s important to maintain good hygiene to prevent passing the infection to others.
What if the infection keeps coming back?
Our pharmacists can help identify possible causes and prevention strategies. If the problem persists, we may refer you to your GP.
Explore related services:
Common Ailments Service |
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Written by Ali Sparkes BSc (Hons), MSc Econ, IP, FRPharmS – Independent Prescribing Pharmacist