Heartworm disease in pets has been reported in all 50 states in the United States, and is endemic in the southeastern U.S. For dogs infected with heartworms, treatment options are available, but the side effects of treatment can be difficult and risky.
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Benefits
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Heartworms left untreated are ultimately fatal for dogs. The benefits generally outweigh the risks and side effects of treatment.
Potentially Fatal Side Effects
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Dogs undergoing heartworm treatment must be kept as calm as possible. Activity increases the risk of embolisms, which could potentially be fatal.
Soreness
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Heartworm treatment is administered through an injection in the lower back. The shot is painful, and will cause soreness at the injection site. Medications are generally prescribed to help manage the pain.
Coughing
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Coughing is common during the heartworm treatment recovery period. As the heartworms die, the dog will try to expel them from the lungs by coughing. Even mild coughing is cause for an evaluation by a veterinarian.
Fever
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Dogs undergoing heartworm treatment generally develop a fever. Often, anti-inflammatory medications are prescribed to help manage the fever.
Cats
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Cats can also be infected with heartworms. There is currently no approved medication for treating heartworms in cats.
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