Gastrointestinal ulcer
Causes of gastrointestinal ulcers in dogs
There are many possible causes of gastrointestinal ulcers in dogs, but some of the most common are:
- The use of medications that can irritate or damage the stomach lining, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids or aspirin.
- An infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which attacks the stomach lining and causes inflammation.
- A chronic illness that increases acidity in the stomach, such as kidney failure, liver disease or Cushing's syndrome.
- Trauma or injury to the gastrointestinal tract, such as foreign bodies, tumors or surgery.
- Stress, which can lead to increased secretion of stomach acid.
Signs of gastrointestinal ulcers in dogs
The symptoms of a gastrointestinal ulcer in dogs can vary depending on the severity and location of the ulcer. Some of the most common signs are:
- Vomiting of blood or coffee grounds-like material
- Black, tarry or bloody stools
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Lethargy or weakness
- Pale mucous membranes or anemia
Treatment options for gastrointestinal ulcers in dogs
Treatment for a gastrointestinal ulcer in dogs depends on the cause, severity and condition of the dog. Some of the possible treatment options include:
- Discontinuing or adjusting the medications that may have caused or worsened the ulcer.
- The administration of antibiotics to fight an infection with Helicobacter pylori.
- The administration of medications that reduce or neutralize stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine receptor blockers (H2 blockers) or antacids.
- The administration of drugs that promote the healing of the mucous membrane, such as sucralfate or misoprostol.
- The administration of blood transfusions, fluid therapy or other supportive measures in the event of severe bleeding or shock.
- Surgical removal of foreign bodies, tumors or other obstructions in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Adjustment of the diet in order to protect and relieve the gastrointestinal tract. This may include low-fat, easily digestible and frequent feeding.
The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.
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