Today there are pharmaceutical drugs for just about anything and anyone, which is great news for humans and animals alike, meaning they can get instant relief for a myriad of diseases and their symptoms. However, along with the good comes the bad, and side-effects relating to laboratory-produced drugs can be extensive, and if over-used can sometimes cause more problems than the original symptom. Also, drugs and their strengths are not all suitable for all species, so you can't just give human drugs to your dog as they may have an adverse reaction.
Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury, infection or irritation, where the body will flood the area with fluid, immune cells and chemicals to protect the area and combat the cause of the stress. This usually results in redness of the skin, swelling, heat and temporary pain. Although this process is designed to protect and heal the body, too much inflammation over an extended period of time - chronic inflammation - can actually cause damage and discomfort to the body, whether it is human or animal. Common conditions that cause chronic inflammation in dogs include allergies, arthritis and autoimmune diseases, and if your vet has diagnosed any of these or other conditions the chances are they have also prescribed an anti-inflammatory drug to ease the symptoms.
Drugs Versus Natural Remedies
Just because something is considered natural, it doesn't mean it is 100% safe or even suitable to give to your pet. Always consult with your vet before starting any new treatment or therapy, as there may be side effects or interactions with your pet's current condition or medications they may be taking.
NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are the most common types of drugs prescribed to combat pain and inflammation in cats and dogs relating to musculoskeletal disorders like arthritis or injury. Carprofen (trade name Rimadyl) and meloxicam (trade name Metacam) are typical. These drugs have common side effects that include vomiting and diarrhoea.
Steroids are often used to treat skin conditions, allergies, auto-immune diseases and osteoarthritis. Side effects can include increased thirst and urination, appetite and weight gain, panting, and suppressing the immune system increasing the risk of infections. It can be extremely dangerous to suddenly stop your dog's steroids - they need to be weaned off them slowly.
Antihistamines are very common for treating the nasty symptoms of allergic reactions, like redness, swelling, itching and rashes, and subsequent inflammation.
Alternative Therapies
There are plenty of natural or alternative therapies out there to help keep your pet's pain and inflammation under control, and they are usually safe to use, with few side effects, and can work well alongside conventional treatments, or sometimes as an alternative.
Red light therapy devices is convenient and easy to use at home and can provide a host of health benefits for your pet, including reducing inflammation and pain, increasing wound healing and boosting overall energy levels. It is a non-invasive, non-painful treatment that stimulates cell function and promotes healing and muscle recovery.