Results: Hypoglycemia: low blood sugar in dogs

(Source: petmd) Hypoglycemia (critically low levels of sugar in the blood) is often linked to diabetes and an overdose of insulin. The blood sugar, or glucose, is a main energy of source in an animal's body, so a low amount will result in a severe decrease in energy levels, possibly to the point of loss of consciousness. In most animals, hypoglycemia is actually not a disease in and of itself, but is only an indication of another underlying health problem. The brain actually needs a steady supply of glucose in order to function properly, as it does not store and create glucose itself. When glucose levels drop to a dangerously low level, a condition of hypoglycemia takes place. If you suspect hypoglycemia, especially if your dog is disposed to this condition, you will need to treat the condition quickly before it becomes life threatening. Does your dog suffer Hypoglycemia?

The best way to determine hypoglycemia if by having the blood sugar level measured while the symptoms are apparent. Here are the symptoms that can help you to detect it. Please indicate which ones you already associated to hypoglycemia before this survey:

There may be several causes for hypoglycemia, as the side effects caused by drugs that are being used to treat diabetes. Dogs with diabetes are given insulin to help control the condition, but an overdose of insulin, or higher dose of insulin given when blood glucose levels are higher than normal, can cause the body to process too much glucose, decreasing the levels of glucose in the blood to levels that are too low for the body's needs. This is when a state of hypoglycemia may occur, and if it is not treated quickly, the brain may be damaged irreparably, leading to death. It's also quite common in puppies, especially in toy breeds, when they become hyperactive, stressed, or don't eat frequently enough while having physical activity. Have you ever seen any person or animal going through a hypoglycemia crisis?

If you notice any of the symptoms of hypoglycemia in your dog, it is advisable to see a veterinarian immediately. If your dog has already lost consciousness, or is visibly at the point of collapsing, you will need to call your veterinarian for instructions on immediate at-home treatment, followed by a visit with the doctor. Even if you are able to treat your dog at home during the episode of hypoglycemia, you will still need to see your veterinarian so that blood work can be done. Your veterinarian will need to do a complete blood profile, a chemical blood profile, a complete blood count, and a urinalysis. You will need to give your veterinarian a thorough history of your dog's health, onset of symptoms, recent diet and any medications you have been giving to your dog. Did you know that honey or Karo syrup given to a pet when hypoglycemia starts can save their lives?