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Glaucoma in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

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Glaucoma in dogs is a disease that affects the eyes and causes progressive loss of vision. Many times it is asymptomatic, being necessary to be aware of small changes in their behavior to recognize the condition. The eyes are sophisticated and delicate infrastructures that allow sending external stimuli to the brain and interpreting images. What we commonly call vision.

The visible part of the eye represents a small portion of the optical structure. This anterior portion is formed by the sclera (white part), iris (colored part), pupil (the black point), drainage channels and ciliary tissues. In the posterior part and not visible is the cornea, the lens, the retina, which is the inner lining of the eye. Also the nerves and the optic disc.

Glaucoma in Dogs
Glaucoma in Dogs & How to Cure it.

The mechanism of joint action of all these elements enables the sense of vision. An alteration in any of these structures can lead to blindness and damage the nervous system. Glaucoma in dogs is one of the most frequent ophthalmological conditions. Knowing how to recognize your first signs can save your dog’s vision. Continue Reading…

What is Glaucoma in Dogs?

Glaucoma affects dogs in a very similar way to humans. It is the accumulation of fluid that leads to a progressive increase in intraocular pressure. The anterior part of the eye is embedded in a clear liquid called aqueous humor or intraocular fluid. It is produced by the ciliary bodies and its function is to perform protective hydration. Resection of this area could cause various injuries or irritations.

A healthy eye has a dynamic circulation system. The fluid is expelled from the interior of the intraocular cavity by means of the pupil. Almost immediately, it must be absorbed by the mesh of channels that make up the ocular drainage system. Thus reaching the bloodstream.

what is glaucoma in dogs

Eventually, the drainage ducts become clogged and obstruct the flow of the aqueous humor. The excess of this fluid inside the eye generates a progressive increase in intraocular pressure. When this process affects the eyes of dogs, it is called glaucoma in dogs.

The increase in intraocular pressure accelerates the process of degeneration of the optic nerve and the retina. The most common consequence is partial loss of vision or blindness.

Causes of Glaucoma in Dogs

Glaucoma in dogs can be chronic or acute. It usually presents a strong hereditary factor. Therefore, the main cause of this disorder is due to genetic inheritance.

It must be borne in mind that glaucoma can also derive from other diseases that previously affect the organism of the animal.

Symptoms of Glaucoma in Dogs

In most cases, the owners only perceive the disorder when the animal has already lost much of its vision. Basically, when the animal’s eye meets the blurred appearance and takes on a slightly bluish tone.

However, glaucoma blindness results from a gradual loss of vision. Logically, the dog finds it difficult to indicate that it is losing its visual capacity.

Symptoms of Glaucoma

 

First symptoms of glaucoma in dogs

  • Pain or sensitivity in the eyes and/or in the head.
  • Vomiting and/or craving for vomiting.
  • The appearance of bluish halos and/or cloudy appearance in the eyes (mainly when exposed to light).
  • Difficulty locating space-time.

Glaucoma in dogs is usually a silent disease. Dogs show that they have vision problems when they begin to walk with difficulty, collapsing or hitting objects. They do this because they do not see well and do not manage to deviate from the obstacles in their way.

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Treatment for Glaucoma in Dogs

The treatment of glaucoma in dogs also resembles that of humans and depends on the degree of evolution of the disorder. However, it is very important that the veterinarian be responsible for indicating an appropriate treatment for each animal.

dog glaucoma treatment

Generally, an eye drop is applied to balance the drainage system and control the intraocular fluid. In addition, it is customary to administer an analgesic and/or anti-inflammatories to relieve severe pain in the eyes and head. In more advanced cases, the surgical procedure is recommended. Laser technology is used to artificially drain the intraocular cavity.

Although there is no specific method to prevent glaucoma in dogs. Responsible ownership is the best way to preserve the health of our pet. Keeping your vaccination and deworming chart up to date, providing a balanced diet and physical exercises can save your dog life.

Conclusion:

Hence, You have learned about Glaucoma in Dogs, what were their causes, symptoms and the best treatment to cure glaucoma in dogs. Just check the complete article and make sure to follow the steps given above to treat your dog. We hope you like the article and willing to share the article with friends and other dog owners. So Feel free to ask your questions in the comment box below. Stay tuned to dogsfud for more articles on dogs.

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