Pulmonary hypertension in dogs
What is pulmonary hypertension?
A dog with pulmonary hypertension suffers from high pressure in the pulmonary artery. Pulmonary hypertension is also known as pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). This problem can be caused by a wide range of underlying health problems, including pulmonary thromboembolism and heartworm disease. Pulmonary hypertension should always be evaluated by a veterinarian since it can lead to right-sided heart disease and be a symptom of a serious health problem that must be treated.
Pulmonary hypertension symptoms in dogs
A dog with pulmonary hypertension can develop exercise intolerance, breathing difficulties and cyanosis. Cyanosis is caused by excessive amounts of inadequately oxygenated blood in the dog's circulatory system. In a dog with cyanosis, gums, tongue, lips and other areas of skin or mucous membranes where the blood vessels are close to the surface will become purplish or bluish. Sometimes it will also be possible to see a purplish/bluish coloration of the foot pads.
Other cardiovascular and circulatory problems in dogs: (click for more info)
Aortic stenosis in dogs
Congestive heart failure in dogs
Degenerative mitral valve disease in dogs
Dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs
Heart valve dysplasia in dogs
Hemolytic anemia in dogs
Patent ductus arteriosus in dogs
Pericardial effusion in dogs
Pulmonic stenosis in dogs
Thrombocytopenia in dogs
Ventricular septal defect in dogs
Atrial septal defect in dogs
Tetralogy of Fallot in dogs
Von Willebrand disease in dogs
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