Key points
- There is no specific treatment for rat lungworm.
- Most infections resolve on their own as the parasite dies over time.
- Treating the symptoms may reduce the severity of headaches and how long other symptoms last.
Treatment options
Angiostrongylus cantonensis
There is no specific treatment for A. cantonensis infection. There is some evidence that certain supportive treatments may reduce the severity of headache and the duration of symptoms. Persons with symptoms should consult their healthcare provider for more information.
Angiostrongylus costaricensis
There is no specific treatment for A. costaricensis infections. Most infections resolve spontaneously though sometime surgical treatment is necessary to removed portions of inflamed intestine. Persons with symptoms should consult their health care provider for more information.