#asktheexpert
my daughter is 2 and half years old, I gave her albendazole on October 2024,after one she shows some itching problem on her genital area, and i consult a doctor he gave another medicine ,after having that she get relief from itching.that was on November. today she told me she get itching on her genital area,then I examined, I saw a no of worms...what should I do??can I give albendazole again?

Question

#asktheexpert 
my daughter is 2 and half years old, I gave her albendazole on October 2024,after one she shows some itching problem on her genital area, and i consult a doctor he gave another medicine ,after having that she get relief from itching.that was on November. today  she told me she get itching on her genital area,then I examined, I saw a no of worms...what should I do??can I give albendazole again?

Accepted Answer

If your 2.5-year-old daughter has itching in the genital area after taking Albendazole (deworming medicine) in October 2024, here are some possible reasons and solutions:

🔎 Possible Causes

1️⃣ Worm Expulsion Reaction – Sometimes, as worms die, they may cause irritation around the anus and genital area.
2️⃣ Fungal or Yeast Infection – Common in toddlers due to diaper use, poor ventilation, or prolonged moisture.
3️⃣ Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – If she has pain while urinating, fever, or foul-smelling urine.
4️⃣ Skin Irritation – Due to soap, wipes, or tight clothing.
5️⃣ Pinworms – If itching is worse at night, it might be pinworms (Albendazole doesn’t kill eggs, so reinfection is possible).

✅ What You Can Do at Home

✔ Keep the Area Clean & Dry – Wash with warm water, avoid harsh soaps.
✔ Apply Coconut Oil or Diaper Rash Cream – Helps with irritation.
✔ Loose Cotton Clothing – To prevent sweating.
✔ Check for Pinworms at Night – Use a flashlight to look for tiny white worms near the anus.
✔ Encourage Hydration – If it’s a mild UTI, fluids help flush bacteria.
✔ Give Probiotics (Curd, Yogurt) – If yeast infection is suspected.

🔴 When to See a Doctor?

🚨 If itching persists for more than a week.
🚨 If you notice redness, swelling, or discharge.
🚨 If there’s frequent urination with burning sensation.
🚨 If she is restless or uncomfortable at night.

She may need an antifungal, antihistamine, or repeat deworming based on the diagnosis. Let me know if you need more details!