In dogs, diabetes, liver problems, crushing syndrome and
kidney disease, all four manifest themselves in symptoms such as unnatural
thirst and frequent urination. After diagnosis, if your vet says that your dog
is suffering from crushing disease, it ought to be treated at the earliest, or
else may give cause to the other three.
Hyperadrenocorticism
or crushing syndrome occurs in dogs that are in their middle or old ages and
are prone to tumors. This, however, does not mean that younger dogs will never
acquire it. This is something which is caused by the excess production of
cortisol, a natural steroid hormone. It is generally secreted when the dog is
stressed or when blood glucororiticoids level is low. This results in increased
blood sugar and low immune system. This disease cannot be cured completely, but
there are ways to manage it.
This disease
originates from tumors, excess use of glucorticoid drugs or steroids and
andrenocorticotophic hormone or ACTH, which is produced by a hyperactive
pituitary gland. 80% of the Crushings in dogs are caused by a harmlessly small
tumor on the pituitary gland. 15% of it is caused by a tumor on either one or
both the adrenal glands. Almost 50% of these tumors are non-malignant.
There are many
signs that your dog may exhibit if afflicted with this ailment. These are:
·
Increased
appetite
·
A pot belly
appearance
·
Sudden weight
gain
·
Shortness of
breath and excessive panting
·
Loss of hair due
to excessive shedding
·
Anxiety and
restlessness
·
Mood swings
·
Ear, skin and
urinary tract infections
Boxers, Boston
Terriers, Beagles, German Shepherds, Jack Russells, Golden Retrievers, Poodles
Scottish and Yorkshire Terriers are some of the breeds that are most prone to
this disease. Vetoryl for dogs is a
common medication for this. It is an andrenosuppressant and has been reported
to be safe and effective on your pets.