Dogs are not pets but family. When they fall ill, fear and uncertainty about what to do next are expected. Pericardial effusion is one of the dangerous diseases that occur in dogs. It may sound complex, but there’s no need to panic. The good news is that this condition is manageable if the owners take appropriate measures and visit the vet on time.
If you have been searching for veterinarians near me, this article will provide you with the answer to why timely and professional treatment matters when addressing heart problems in dogs, such as pericardial effusion.
What Is Pericardial Effusion in Dogs?
Pericardial effusion in dogs occurs when fluid accumulates around the walls of the heart. The pericardium is a thin, protective layer that surrounds the heart. When this space becomes filled with excess water, the heart is pressured. This condition weakens the heart’s ability to work and can become fatal if not treated. If the condition is not treated on time, there are chances of heart failure or serious problems. This is why even the postponed choice of help from a skilled veterinarian cannot help once the condition reaches its last stage.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Pericardial effusion often develops quietly. At first, your dog may not show any clear symptoms. But over time, the pressure around the heart can cause some very noticeable changes. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, avoid waiting. Start by searching for “veterinarians near me” and get your dog checked by a trusted vet right away. To prevent complications, identify these symptoms in your dog:
- Your dog seems tired all the time
- They collapse or faint suddenly
- Breathing becomes fast or difficult
- Their belly looks swollen
- Their gums look pale
- They don’t want to eat or play
See also: How a Dentist in Tustin Can Help Improve Your Oral Health and Aesthetics
What Causes It?
There are different reasons why a dog might develop pericardial effusion. Some of the common causes include:
- Cancer or tumors located within the heart
- Infections or inflammation of the pericardium
- Injury or trauma
- Idiopathic cases that are undeterminable
How is it Diagnosed?
The vet looks at several signs during the check-up to find out if your dog has pericardial effusion. If the vet thinks your dog might have this condition, they may use examinations like:
- X-rays provide a clear view to check the heart’s size and liver enlargement.
- Ultrasound or echocardiogram analyzes the amount of abdominal fluid present.
- Blood test findings help to diagnose any infections or inflammation.
How is it Treated?
In case your dog is in critical condition caused by the cardiac tamponade, your vet might make some efforts to drain the fluid located around the heart. This process is referred to as pericardiocentesis. It can be ultrasound-guided or non-ultrasound-guided. One crucial concern to consider is that pericardiocentesis is not curative regarding pericardial effusion. The pathological cause of the effusion must be treated, as it will recur. This process can make your dog more resilient in the initial stages of the emergency.
In cases where pericardial effusion is related to the tumor, its treatment depends on the type of tumor that appears in the body. In some cases, surgery may be attempted, while others may receive chemotherapy. Pericardial effusion, in certain circumstances, may also be treated through a process known as a pericardectomy. It enables the accumulated fluid to seep outside the pericardium into the surrounding tissues, relieving the heart of pressure.
In other instances, this is a curative treatment, whereas in some cases, it is a treatment performed to provide palliative care. In case a peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is present with pericardial effusion, surgery is needed to rectify the hernia.
Act Early, Save Lives
It’s easy to hope your dog will feel better on their own. Delaying treatment for heart issues can put your dog at serious risk. So if your dog seems weak, breathes fast, or just isn’t acting like themselves, don’t delay. The British Veterinary Centre is ready for emergencies and critical care. With a certified doctor’s team on board, we provide the highest standards of treatment for your pets.
