Tapeworms are flat, ribbon-like parasites that live in the intestines of various animals, including humans. They attach themselves to the intestinal wall using hooks or suckers and absorb nutrients from the host's digested food. Tapeworms can grow several meters long and reproduce by releasing segments filled with eggs, which are expelled in the host's feces. Infection typically occurs when a person consumes undercooked meat or contaminated food and water containing tapeworm eggs or larvae. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, and digestive issues, but some people may remain asymptomatic. Treatment usually involves medication to eliminate the parasite from the body.