Heartworm disease is a dire and often fatal parasitic disease that is caused by the worm, Dirofilaria immitis. This parasite is considered a worldwide clinical problem. The simplest treatment for heartworm is prevention.
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Causes
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Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm carried from host to host by a mosquito. Once inside the host--cat, dog or other mammal--it lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries of the animal.
Symptoms
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Symptoms include coughing and difficulty breathing, fatigue and weight loss.
Detection
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Heartworm can be detected through blood test, ultrasound, or X-ray examination. It is recommended that all dogs be routinely screened every spring.
Prevalence
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It's more prevalent in states where the heat and humidity allow mosquitoes to thrive. According to the ASPCA, "the disease has been seen in every state except Alaska," and is most common in or on the East Coast, southern United States and Mississippi River Valley.
Prevention
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Prevention of heartworm disease can be achieved by a monthly chewable tablet.
Treatment
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Currently, treatment is available for dogs using a drug called an adulticide, while no treatment is available for infected cats.
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