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Understanding Dog Seizure Symptoms by Jon Scroggins
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Understanding Dog Seizure Symptoms by JON SCROGGINS
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| Article Posted: 12/11/2011 |
| Article Views: 181 |
| Articles Written: 1 |
| Word Count: 775 |
| Article Votes: 0 |
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Understanding Dog Seizure Symptoms |
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Pets
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What is a Seizure? In order to understand the symptoms of dog seizures, it is greatly important to interpret what a seizure is. A seizure is an unusual electrical discharge in the brain causing irregular brain function. The extent of the influence on the brain can fluctuate widely, with symptoms ranging from excess drooling to contraction of all muscles and a loss of consciousness. The 4 Stages Seizures can be broken down into 4 stages, the Prodome, the Aura or Pre-Ictus, the Ictus (the actual seizure stage), and the Post-Ictus. 1) Prodome Indicated by a difference in mood or habit, the prodome can last hours or even days. In humans this is often accompanied by feelings of anxiety about the imminent seizure. 2) Aura or Pre-Ictus The pre-ictus signals the start of the seizure, and this stage requires shaking, whining, salivation, hysterical pacing, disappearing, and a universal uneasiness. 3) Ictus This is the actual seizure, and it generally lasts between 1 to 3 minutes. The first phase of the seizure is known as the tonic phase. Normally the dog will fall to her side with her legs extended and her head back. Muscle contractions are occurring throughout the whole body of the dog, causing a variety of side effects. Involuntary vocalizations happen as a result of diaphragm contractions. They are not an sign of pain. In fact, once the seizure has initiated, the pet is in no longer conscious, regardless of whether or not the eyes remain open. The dog may drool constantly, urinate, defecate, and even evacuate its anal glands. This phase is usually short, and the beginning of the next phase, the clonic phase, is designated by rhythmic motions brought on by the flexing and releasing of the muscles. The dog will express pacing motions, jerking, and chomping. The tongue may turn blue and the dog may have difficulties breathing. These are all results of the erratic muscle contractions that should last less than 3 minutes. If the seizure lasts any longer than 3 minutes it is an significant health emergency. 4) Post-Ictus Many seizures manifest overnight, and as a result the post-ictus may be the only actual signs of your dog’s seizure that you ever see. It can persist anywhere from minutes to days and is recognized by continued significant attitude in your pet. She may pace about, be restless, unresponsive, eat or drink excessively, have trouble recognizing familiar faces, and even express hints of hearing difficulties and hints of blindness. What to Do Throughout the Seizure The most crucial thing you can do for your dog during the course of a seizure is to stay calm. Your calm energy will help her remain relaxed through this frightening suffer. If you can, hold your dog and talk to her quietly. Place something soft under her head and try to keep her from harming herself. Be very mindful of her mouth, uncontrollable muscle spasms can lead to a awful bite. If you can, notice the time so you can make a record of the amount of time the seizure lasts. Keep in mind that, any seizure over 3 minutes is an crisis. Lower lighting and noise and isolate her from any other pets or children. It is very important to keep in mind that that the sudden muscle contractions amount to a rigorous exercise for your dog. Watch her temperature closely and use a cool washcloth on her belly, face, and feet to help keep her cool. It is possible for your pet to suffer a heat stroke as a consequence of the seizure. After the Seizure Throughout the post-ictal period it is extremely important to continue to treat your dog as you did throughout the actual seizure. She is still confused and disoriented and needs to be relaxed and be calm. Once she begins to resume common habit she will very likely be very hungry and thirsty. Monitor her eating and drinking to ensure that she doesn't have too much. Make note of as many details surrounding the event as actually possible, including the duration of the seizure itself and how she acted during the course of it. Any information you can always remember could be useful in helping your vet determine a conceivable cause. Ice cream is a recommended treat to restore your pet's blood sugar to a healthy level, but obviously moderation is key. *Information included in this article is not recommended to substitute professional veterinary advice, it is simply a guide to help you better understand dog seizure symptoms. If you would like to learn more about dog seizure symptoms, please visit www.DogSeizureInfo.com.
Related Articles -
dog seizure symptoms, dog seizure info, dog seizures, canine epilepsy,
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