I've been a caretaker of an elderly woman with dementia for over two years. I've seen the effects of this mental affliction, and how devastating it can be to loved ones. This is why I am a firm believer in seeking a professional diagnosis, so the patient may receive necessary care and treatment. Once diagnosed at the onset of symptoms, a plan can be devised. Through social interaction and daily care, my charge has achieved a higher quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you can make a difference. Love will find a way.
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Dementia and Your Loved One
Understanding Canine Liver Failure Signs, Causes And Diagnosis
Vickie Armstrong
While you may be familiar with many of the traditional concerns about your dog's health, one of the things that you may not be aware of is the risk of liver failure. Just like humans, dogs are vulnerable to acute liver failure, and it needs to be identified and treated rapidly to protect your dog's health. Here's a look at what you should know about the signs, diagnosis, and treatment of liver failure so that you know what to watch for.
What Is The Role Of A Dog's Liver?
Your dog's liver plays many different roles, all of which are essential. For example, the liver filters toxins and waste from the blood and regulates the chemicals that are in your pup's body. In addition, the liver secretes bile, which absorbs fats. The essential enzymes that the liver generates will play a key role in digestion and blood clotting.
What Are The Signs Of A Failing Liver?
If your dog is suffering from any form of liver failure, there are some key symptoms that you might notice. For example, gastrointestinal upset is common and often includes things like diarrhea and vomiting. In addition, as the liver cells die off, your dog may appear slightly jaundice, or yellowed. Another sign to watch for is persistent bleeding or difficulties with clotting.
What Can Cause Liver Failure In Dogs?
There are many different things that can lead to acute liver failure in your dog. For example, exposure to a toxin or infectious bacteria may lead to liver damage. Some medications can be damaging to the liver as well, as can excess heat exposure. For some dogs, acute liver failure may be the result of metabolic disorders such as glucose processing problems or protein synthesis interference. These conditions require rapid detection and treatment to protect your pup.
How Can Liver Failure Be Diagnosed?
One of the first things that your vet will probably do is a series of blood tests to detect any enzymes, blood sugar problems or platelet count issues. Also, your dog's urine may be tested for the presence of any bilirubin, crystals or sugar.
In addition to the blood and urine testing, many veterinarians will suggest an ultrasound to evaluate the condition of the liver. Ultrasounds are painless for your pup but give the vet a clear look at the liver. Your vet will probably shave a small area of fur away to do this, because the ultrasound wand needs to make contact with the skin for the sound waves to relay properly. The ultrasound will allow your vet to determine how far the liver condition has progressed, which is important for determining how aggressive treatment must be.
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