Survey
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
Quantium Medical Cardiac Output wikipedia , lookup
Cardiac contractility modulation wikipedia , lookup
Coronary artery disease wikipedia , lookup
Rheumatic fever wikipedia , lookup
Heart failure wikipedia , lookup
Electrocardiography wikipedia , lookup
Congenital heart defect wikipedia , lookup
Atrial fibrillation wikipedia , lookup
Dextro-Transposition of the great arteries wikipedia , lookup
What is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)? Dilated Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle which causes the muscle wall to become weaker. This means that the heart is unable to pump effectively, and so more blood remains in the heart chambers causing them to become enlarged, or dilated. Eventually the heart will go into failure. Are certain dogs more at risk? The cause of DCM is unknown, although some breeds are more predisposed to the condition. These include Dobermans, Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, American Cocker Spaniels, and Boxers. What are the signs of DCM? Dogs with DCM may show signs of exercise intolerance and breathlessness. Many will also have an irregular heartbeat. Often dogs will show no signs of DCM until they go into heart failure. How is DCM diagnosed? If your vet suspects that your dog has DCM they will need further tests to confirm the diagnosis. Primarily a heart scan will be performed by a Cardiologist, who will be able to assess how the heart is pumping, and measure the size of the chambers and thickness of the heart muscles. Chest X-rays are useful to assess the size of the heart, and as many dogs with DCM have an irregular heart rhythm known as atrial fibrillation, an ECG is also a useful test. My dog has DCM, now what? Treatment is focused on improving the ability of the heart to pump and managing the symptoms of heart failure, and many dogs can have a good quality of life with medical management and medications. /MarketingCollateral/InformationSheets/SmallAnimal/DilatedCardiomyopathy