What is a common symptom of helminth infections in children?

A common symptom of helminth infections, particularly in children, is an itchy anus, which is clinically known as pruritus ani. This symptom is often associated with infections caused by pinworms, such as Enterobius vermicularis, which are prevalent in pediatric populations. The intense itching typically occurs at night when female worms migrate to the anal area to lay their eggs. This discomfort can lead to sleep disturbances, irritability, and secondary infections due to scratching.

While other symptoms like nausea and vomiting can occur with various gastrointestinal conditions, they are not exclusively linked to helminth infections in children. Elevated blood pressure is not generally a symptom of helminth infections. Increased appetite may be present in some contexts as a physiological response, but it is not specifically recognized as a common symptom of these infections. The distinct and frequent occurrence of anal itching in cases of helminth infections underscores its significance as a recognizable symptom in clinical practice, highlighting its relevance to the diagnosis and management of such infections in children.