Canine Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a clinical condition that is the end result of heart disease serious. It is common when a dog has heart failure, heart disease is also present in the body. However, it is true that in some cases, heart disease may be present, but never lead to congestive heart disease.
When high diastolic pressure in the heart accumulate in the veins and capillaries, then congestive cardiac failure may occur, which in turn causes a leakage of fluid out of those ships.
Heart failure is the end result of many different cardiac and pericardial diseases. These include:
• Decreased myocardial contractility. This is a weak heart muscle, which is commonly seen with dilated cardiomyopathy.
• regurgitation. It is leaking of the four heart valves, as seen in the mitral and tricuspid insufficiency.
• Increased myocardial stiffness, which impairs heart's ability to fill with blood.
At first, the signs of congestive heart failure may be quite mild and difficult to see. However, the symptoms may become more serious in a short space of time. Some symptoms to look for are:
• Lack of energy - the dog becomes less active and tires quickly during the final stages of congestive heart failure;
• Lack of appetite
• Loss weight;
• Heavy breathing - The dog may show signs of difficulty breathing, wheezing and coughing at rest, while;
• Cough
• Swollen abdomen - stomach dogs can enlarge as fluid accumulates in the liver and abdomen, and
• Changing the color of the mouth - The color of the membranes of the mouth may be gray rather than a healthy pink.
The first thing to do, however, is the management of clinical congestive heart failure, reducing edema formation and stroke and increased cardiac output, which is the delivery of blood to the tissues.
There a variety of treatments for congestive heart failure, depending on the severity of the condition.
One of the most commonly used drugs for this disease is digital. This is a drug that belongs to a group called positive inotropic agents which help to increase calcium concentration in cells heart muscle.
Diuretics are also another popular drug used for dogs with this condition. These medications help to remove fluid accumulated that occur in the lungs and abdomen.
Monitor your dogs attitude and changes in appearance when you spend time with his friend. It is essential to keep a diary all that varies from "the norm" so that you can show your vet. Check your dog on a daily basis for:
- Breathe, see if it is heavy or difficult;
- The loss or decreased appetite;
- Restlessness;
- Fainting, and
- Deep slumber.
However, it is important to remember, the canine congestive heart failure is an important disease and is a necessity to have regular visits to your veterinarian to ensure that the needs of their dogs are being met.
About the Author
Joann Henry operates "Doggie Health Care"
http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com
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Chained, Neglected Very Sick Hound w/Congestive Heart Failure
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