posted by Tess on Aug 4
Cortisol is often referred to as a ‘stress hormone’. This is because its secretion by the adrenal glands is related to the stress factor. In addition it also affects blood pressure, blood sugar and is vital to the immunosuppressive actions of the dog’s body. The synthetic form of cortisol, known as hydrocortisone, is used to treat inflammatory diseases, allergic reactions and to supplement deficiencies of the endogenous cortisol.
Levels of cortisol in the body change according to the need of the body. They also vary according to the day-night cycle - the levels are at their peak early in the morning and lowest about 2 to 3 hours after sleep time. Damages to the pituitary or adrenal glands can disturb the production of the hormone to cause conditions like Cushings disease (hyperadrenocorticism) and Addison’s disease that require immediate attention of the dog owners. These glands are the two endocrinal glands that are vital to endogenous production of cortisol in the body.
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posted by Tess on Apr 20
It is often easy to miss out on some of the symptoms that surface in your dog. Since dog has given companionship, loyalty and affection to humans, the least that man can do is to ensure that their pets are healthy and well taken care of.
Sometimes symptoms like excessive urination, hair loss and too much of huffing and puffing can be the first warning signs of endocrinal diseases like Cushing’s disease or hypothyroidism.
Disturbances in the required levels of thyroid hormones cause hypothyroidism (less secretion of hormone) or hyperthyroidism (increased secretion).
Most cases of hypothyroidism in dogs results from an autoimmune system dysfunction. This affects the lymphocytes causing them to decreases in size in some cases.
Hyperthyroidism is extremely rare in dogs. But in most cases, the underlying cause almost always is a cancerous tumor in the thyroid.
The symptoms of hypothyroidism are vague and not easily discernable. Signs like decreased activity, fluid retention, swelling, infections in ear or skin and muscle weakness may not always result in the diagnosis for hypothyroidism. But it is always advisable to seek professional consultation to completely rule out thyroid dysfunction.
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posted by Tess on Oct 24
Hypothyroid conditions in pets
The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones which have a number of functions in the body and are particularly critical in maintaining your pet’s metabolic rate. Any change in the functioning of this gland can have varied effects on your pet’s health. In some animals (and humans) the function of the thyroid gland may become compromised and decrease as your pet ages or due to inflammation of the gland. Although hypothyroidism (decreased functioning of the thyroid) is not a life-threatening condition, it can certainly decrease your dog or cat’s quality of life.
The symptoms of hypothyroidism may be insidious in onset and not immediately obvious. If your pet has been putting on weight or you suspect hypothyroidism for another reason, it is best to consult your vet who will be able to test for this condition by measuring thyroid hormones in the blood.
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism in pets?
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