For humans, the path is different. Infection usually happens through contact with . Small larvae released by freshwater snails can penetrate human skin during swimming or bathing. Once inside, they travel to the veins of the bladder to lay eggs. Signs and Symptoms: What to Watch For
Parasites often have complex life cycles that involve "middlemen" or intermediate hosts. The Pet Perspective (Dogs and Cats) bladder worm
Dogs and cats usually get infected by eating that carry the parasite larvae. Once swallowed, the larvae burrow through the intestinal wall, hitch a ride through the blood vessels, and eventually settle in the bladder to mature into adults. The Human Perspective For humans, the path is different
Humans aren't typically infected by the animal version. Instead, "bladder worm" often refers to Urinary Schistosomiasis , caused by Schistosoma haematobium . These worms live in the blood vessels surrounding the bladder. Once inside, they travel to the veins of
Many infections are "silent" and show no symptoms at first. However, as the parasite establishes itself, you might notice: