The major symptoms of DCM include: Lethargy. Anorexia. Labored breathing. Panting. Coughing. Abdominal distension. Sudden collapse.
How do you know if your dog has a DCM?
How is DCM diagnosed?1Auscultation. Listening to the chest with a stethoscope allows your veterinarian to identify murmurs due to the improper closure of heart valves. ... 2Blood and urine tests. ... 3ProBNP. ... 4Chest radiographs (X-rays). ... 5Electrocardiogram (ECG). ... 6Ultrasound examination (echocardiogram). ... 7Holter monitor. ... 8Diuretics.
What are the stages of DCM in dogs?
DCM is generally divided into two phases: 1) An occult phase, during which time disease is present but dogs remain asymptomatic. This phase can last months to years. 2) An overt clinical phase, when clinical signs develop.
Can a dog recover from DCM?
Long term prognosis for DCM varies considerably. Unfortunately, most dogs with signs of congestive heart failure at the time of diagnosis die as a result of the disease within 6 months. In the most severe cases, some dogs may survive only weeks to a few months. Occasionally, dogs may do well clinically for 1-2 years.
How do vets check for DCM?
DIAGNOSIS: DCM is diagnosed by echocardiography, which demonstrates the chamber dilation and indices of decreased pump function characteristic of the disease.
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