Roundworm Research Paper
Toxocariasis
Toxocariasis is an infection caused by the parasitic roundworms commonly found in the intestine of dogs and cats. It can result in permanent vision loss if it spreads to an eye.
CAUSES
This condition is usually caused by swallowing something that has been infected with roundworm eggs. Roundworm eggs can be found in dirt and animal feces.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of this condition include:
Vision loss.
Poor appetite.
Fever.
Coughing.
Rash.
Abdominal pain.
Swollen lymph glands.
Often, there are no symptoms.
DIAGNOSIS
This condition may be diagnosed with a physical exam and blood tests.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. If the condition is mild, no treatment may be needed.
If the condition is severe or if symptoms do not go away on their own, medicines may be prescribed. If the infection affects the eye, medicines will be prescribed and surgery may be recommended to prevent eye damage.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
Take steps to prevent reinfection. For example:
Wash your hands well with soap and water after playing with animals and after outdoor activities.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Have your veterinarian regularly treat your pets for worms.
Clean your pet's living area at least once a week. Feces should be either buried or bagged and thrown away in the trash.
PREVENTION
Wash your hands well with soap and water after playing with animals and after outdoor activities.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Have your veterinarian regularly treat your pets for worms.
Clean your pet's living area at least once a week. Feces should be either buried or bagged and thrown away in the trash.
SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:
You continue to have symptoms after treatment.
You develop new symptoms.
The condition returns after treatment.
SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:
You develop vision problems.
Toxocariasis is an infection caused by the parasitic roundworms commonly found in the intestine of dogs and cats. It can result in permanent vision loss if it spreads to an eye.
CAUSES
This condition is usually caused by swallowing something that has been infected with roundworm eggs. Roundworm eggs can be found in dirt and animal feces.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of this condition include:
Vision loss.
Poor appetite.
Fever.
Coughing.
Rash.
Abdominal pain.
Swollen lymph glands.
Often, there are no symptoms.
DIAGNOSIS
This condition may be diagnosed with a physical exam and blood tests.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. If the condition is mild, no treatment may be needed.
If the condition is severe or if symptoms do not go away on their own, medicines may be prescribed. If the infection affects the eye, medicines will be prescribed and surgery may be recommended to prevent eye damage.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
Take steps to prevent reinfection. For example:
Wash your hands well with soap and water after playing with animals and after outdoor activities.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Have your veterinarian regularly treat your pets for worms.
Clean your pet's living area at least once a week. Feces should be either buried or bagged and thrown away in the trash.
PREVENTION
Wash your hands well with soap and water after playing with animals and after outdoor activities.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Have your veterinarian regularly treat your pets for worms.
Clean your pet's living area at least once a week. Feces should be either buried or bagged and thrown away in the trash.
SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:
You continue to have symptoms after treatment.
You develop new symptoms.
The condition returns after treatment.
SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:
You develop vision problems.