Hospitalization is not always necessary for HGE therapy, although it often involves the administration of fluids to avoid dehydration. Without enough fluids, the blood becomes thicker and its passage through the blood arteries may be obstructed. Subcutaneous fluids or even simply drinking water may be adequate for individuals treated early, but intravenous fluids are required to avoid âdisseminated intravascular coagulation,â or DIC, a potentially deadly blood clotting disease caused by blood thickening and slowing. When DIC begins, it is often irreversible.
While some persons may need substantial doses of aspirin to control arthritic pain, excessive aspirin usage may result in serious problems such as tinnitus (ear ringing), pulmonary edema (fluid buildup in the lungs), and renal failure.
Aspirin may induce stomach discomfort and may result in ulcers and bleeding. Individuals with a history of ulcers or other stomach issues should avoid aspirin, and those on blood thinners should exercise care while taking aspirin concurrently, since the risk of inappropriate bleeding is raised.
Examine the gums: Run your finger along your dog's gums, looking for sliminess. Gums that are dry or sticky are a warning indication of dehydration. Check the time required for the dog's gum capillaries to refill: With your fingertip, press on your dog's gums until the region becomes white, then remove it and time how long it takes for the gum surface to return to its regular pink hue. Generally, the time required to replenish is less than two seconds. While dogs need water to be hydrated, gulping large amounts of water at once may create severe discomfort, resulting in further vomit. To keep your dog from drinking too much water, you may give him ice chips in place of water—at least until he feels better.
AHDS is potentially fatalâyour dog may get septic (caused by a deadly infection in the bloodstream), lose an excessive amount of protein, or develop problems.
Only the intestines, not the stomach, have been proven to be inflamed in dogs with this condition. If you feel your dog may have AHDS, contact your veterinarian immediately.
