Ep 7. I Coughed Up Worms!

In Monsters Inside Me Season 3 Episode 7 - I Coughed Up Worms!, viewers will be taken on a journey through the horrifying experience of a woman who suddenly starts coughing up worms. The episode begins with the story of Tammy, a 51-year-old middle school teacher from Ohio, who was enjoying life with her family when she suddenly started experiencing bizarre symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and weight loss. When conventional treatment failed to bring her any relief, she decided to see a specialist, and that's when the true horror of her condition was revealed.

After a thorough examination, Tammy's doctors discovered that she had a severe case of parasitic infection caused by a rare species of worms known as Paragonimus kellicotti. These worms are usually found in snails and crayfish, and humans can get infected by consuming undercooked or contaminated meat. Once inside the body, the worms can migrate to the lungs, causing a range of symptoms like coughing, chest pain, fever, and even pneumonia.

Tammy's case was particularly challenging because the worms had formed cysts inside her lungs, making it tough for the doctors to diagnose and treat her. However, with the help of sophisticated imaging techniques like CT scans and bronchoscopy, her physicians were able to identify the exact location of the cysts and remove them through a series of surgeries. After a long and grueling recovery period, Tammy was finally able to return to her normal life, but the experience had left her traumatized and afraid of eating seafood ever again.

As Tammy's story unfolds in the episode, viewers will also learn about the life cycle of the Paragonimus kellicotti worm, which involves multiple hosts like the snail, crayfish, and mammal. The episode features interviews with expert parasitologists who explain the biology and behavior of these fascinating creatures, as well as how they can cause such devastating infections in humans.

Additionally, the episode includes several other cases of parasitic infections caused by other types of worms and parasites, highlighting the importance of proper hygiene, food safety, and disease prevention. Viewers will be shocked to learn about the diverse range of symptoms caused by these parasites, from rashes and fever to neurological damage and organ failure.

Overall, Monsters Inside Me Season 3 Episode 7 - I Coughed Up Worms! is a gripping and spine-chilling exploration of the world of parasitic infections and the havoc they can wreak on our bodies. With its compelling storytelling, informative interviews, and stunning visuals, this episode is a must-see for anyone interested in medical mysteries and the wonders (and horrors) of the natural world.