Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, also known as immune mediated hemolytic anemia, or IMHA, occurs when your dog's immune system destroys red blood cells. Without these cells, your dog's tissues become deprived of much-needed oxygen. Although the underlying cause isn't known, certain conditions such as infections or cancer can trigger this response. IMHA requires immediate treatment and ongoing supportive care to reduce the risk of fatality. Blood transfusions or surgical removal of the spleen might be necessary in cases that can't be managed with medications and home care.
Instructions
1. Administer your dog's prescribed medications regularly. Let your vet know right away if you're having trouble, since missing doses can be very dangerous. Signs of improvement usually begin to show within three to four days after corticosteroid treatment begins, but your dog still needs to take the full dosage.
2. Watch for signs of infection, including appetite loss, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea and urinary incontinence. Corticosteroids and other medications used to treat IMHA suppress the immune system, which can make your dog prone to infection. Tell your vet if your dog exhibits any of these symptoms.
3. Feed your dog a well-balanced diet to make sure she's getting proper nutrition. Ask your vet to recommend foods and tell you how much food to give your dog. The high doses of corticosteroids administered in the early stages of treatment often cause increased appetite and rapid weight gain.
4. Limit your dog's activity until he recovers. Avoid rough play and use a leash when you take him out so he won't run around.
5. Bring your dog to the vet for all scheduled blood tests, which will be more frequent during initial treatment. Your vet will begin to lower the medication dosage when your dog's red blood cell count reaches a normal level. Your vet will perform a blood test after each dosage decrease.
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