Addison’s disease

Addison’s disease

What is it?

Hormones play a vital role in regulating body processes. These hormones must be at their right levels to ensure that the organs function properly. However, there are some occasions wherein these hormones’ blood levels either go down or go up abnormally. Hence, certain pathologies are bound to occur.

In the case for Addison’s disease, there is a deficiency in the production of corticosteroid hormones, as well as, mineralosteroid hormones. An example of a corticosteroid hormone is cortisol while aldosterone is an example of the other hormone group. By the way, all of these hormones are produced by the adrenal gland, which is situated near or on top of the kidney.

What causes Addison’s disease?

Otherwise known as hypoadrenocorticism, Addison’s disease can have a number of causes ranging from tumour formation on the gland, infections, direct gland trauma, as well as, auto immune diseases that are triggered by the pituitary gland or are induced by some prescribed drugs.

Addison’s Disease- Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of this disorder are not specific to the disease. They can occur slowly and when they do, the pet owner may not spot them out immediately. These can include losing weight, diarrhoea, vomiting, lack of appetite, increased urination, excessive thirst, shaking, pain at the abdomen, dizziness, fatigability, difficulty in standing or moving about (may be due to too much fatigue and weakness), muscle and joint pains. Although rare, there are cases wherein the condition becomes a lot more severe that it will develop into what is called as Addisonian Crisis. This is actually am aggregate of many symptoms related to Addison’s disease. When this happens, there will be generalized body weakness that may induce collapse. Diarrhoea and vomiting will also be present. In most cases, this crisis is considered as a medical emergency.

The Diagnosis

Blood tests will be prescribed which are based on the presenting symptoms. Medical imaging like ultrasound may also be performed to distinguish certain hormone deficiencies.

The Treatment

Treating Addison’s disease involves taking medications for an extended period of time. These medications are primarily steroids that are to be administered to counter the decreased cortisol value in the blood. These drugs are usually taken for life. Dietary adjustments need to be employed as well. For the more severe cases, the victim needs to be admitted to the hospital so that an intravenous line (IV) will be connected. This time will also serve as an observation period for your pet. After which, several blood tests will be prescribed to determine the appropriate medication fit for the case.

What about the prognosis?

Generally, the prognosis of this disorder is good. Given that the dog is taking the right amount of medications and that he is not subjected to too much stress then he still has a good chance of living a healthy life. Pet owners should just be watchful for any signs of Addisonian crisis. In this connection, the mere occurrence of diarrhoea and infections should immediately be reported to the vet so that it can properly be managed.

Another challenge that pet owners must face is the spending needed for the dog’s medications. Lifelong medication therapy really involves a lot of money.
 

Disclaimer

This pet health article is for reference only.

If your pet is showing any symptoms or distress, and you suspect your pet is ill CONTACT YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY.