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Pancreatic Disease Causes and Treatment
Inflammation of the pancreas is called pncreatitis, but the exact cause in dogs is unknown.
The twomain functions of the pancreas are the production of unsulin which is passed into the blood to aid in the utilization of sugars, and the production of enzymes that are passed into the doudenum (the first part of the small intestine) for the digestion of fats, carbohydrate and proteins.
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Inflammation of the pancreas is called pncreatitis. It is associated with obesity, poor nutrition, trauma, and tumors. Obstruction of the bile or pancreatic ducts cans also lead to pancreatitis. Bacterial infections are not a primary cause, but can complicate pancreatitis once it has occurred.
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Signs of Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis can be acute or cronic. The signs of acute disease are:
- Sudden onset.
- Severe abdominal pain—the dog will be reluctant to move and will stand with an arched back, and tensed abdomen.
- Vomiting that occurs some hours after eating (rather than immediately, which is more diagnostic of acute pancreatitis).
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Depression, collapse and shock.
The signs of chronic or less severe disease are:
- Increased thirst and excessive urination.
- Bulky, fatty, foul-smelling grey stools, particularly after a high-fat meal is fed.
- Loss of weight.
- Occasional nausea, vomiting, flatulence, and other signs of digestive upsets.
- Poor general condition, particularly of the skin and hair-caot.
- Signs of diabetes mellitus in progressive cases.
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Diagnosis of Pancreatitis
Diagnosis is made from the history, the clinical signs, a physical examination, and confirmed by laboratory tests on the blood, urine, and feces. X-rays can be helpful in diagnosis.
Treatment of Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis needs emergency treatment for shock. Antibiotics and pain-relief drugs will also be necessary. No food can be given by mouth, so intravenous fluids and feeding will be part of treatment. Some cases will require surgical intervention if this will reverse the cause.
PROGNOSIS The prognosis is generally not good for acute pancreatitis, although up to 5% of affected dogs can be saved with early treatment. Some cases tend to recur and become chronic, and require careful watching for signs and feeding of special diet available from veterinarians. Pancreatic extracts and vitamins will also be part of the chronic case's treatment and are oftem needed for the rest of the dog's life.
In either the acute or chronic disease, if the pancreas is severely damaged, the dog will become diabetic.
Go Pets America recommends seeking the advice of your local veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination program and for the diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health problems. For vaccination requirements please contact your state and local licensing authorities.
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