Insulin Seizures in Canines
Dogs experience insulin seizures as a side effect of diabetes. Most dogs suffer from Type II diabetes, or insulin dependency. This disease is easily controlled through insulin injections and diet regulation.
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Facts
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When a dog is diabetic, their brain and body lacks a constant and consistent source of glucose. As glucose is the substance that aids muscle movement, the brain's lack of glucose, or an overreaction to surplus glucose, can lead to seizures.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of low blood sugar, and a possible impending seizure, include a lack of energy, weakness, restlessness, shivering, disorientation and convulsions. In severe cases dogs may become unconscious.
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Diagnosis
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A chemistry profile performed by a veterinarian is the only way to adequately diagnose a dog with diabetes. These tests can also confirm the diabetes as the cause for insulin seizures, which can be treated with insulin injections.
Treatments
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Emergency treatment of hypoglycemia involves administering glucose, typically by intravenous injection. In non-emergency situations, treatment is often achieved by feeding the dog a source of sugar such as ice cream, syrup, honey or jam. If the dog is seizing or unconscious at the time, a powdered substance can be used for inhalation.
Prognosis
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Seizures are rarely, if ever, eliminated completely, however they are unlikely to cause death in a dog. Seizures caused by hypoglycemia are easily controlled and can be effectively managed in a living situation with the right medications.
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