Ibuprofen is a popular over-the-counter medication that is used to treat a variety of everyday aches and pains in humans. According to Drugs.com, it may also go by the brand names of Advil or Motrin. While ibuprofen is safe for use in people, it is not safe for use in canines. Dogs who suffer from a stroke should not be given ibuprofen to sooth any of their symptoms and should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
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Causes
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According to PetWave.com, canine strokes occur when the brain tissue is deprived of oxygen. This can be caused by various underlying health issues, such as kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes or brain tumors. For some dogs, the cause of stroke may be unknown. However, ibuprofen does not cause a stroke in dogs, nor should a dog be given ibuprofen if he suffers from a stroke.
Ibuprofen Toxicity in Dogs
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Ibuprofen causes bleeding stomach ulcers in canines, which does not affect the flow of oxygen to the brain. Per PetPlace.com, dogs who do consume ibuprofen will suffer from vomiting, abdominal pain, dehydration and behavioral changes such as lethargy. Due to the blood present in the stomach, there may be blood in the vomit and the dog will also produce dark, tarry stools, which indicates digested blood. If left untreated, ibuprofen can lead to kidney failure, which can then lead to death.
Canine Stroke Symptoms
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The symptoms of a stroke are different than the symptoms of ibuprofen toxicity, though both sets of symptoms could occur if an owner gives ibuprofen without knowledge of its toxicity to dogs. Canine stroke symptoms are usually neurological and include difficulty walking or uncontrollable circling when walking. The dog may stay tilted to one side or the other, which can be accompanied by sudden loss of vision and loss of control over their bowel movements. Some dogs may also suffer from unusual and abrupt behavioral changes.
Diagnosis
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Ibuprofen toxicity diagnosis is usually made based on a history of exposure to the medication, along with a physical exam. The dog will require blood tests to check organ function and to confirm the presence of ibuprofen in the system, per PetPlace.com. Meanwhile, dogs that have experienced a stroke will require an MRI or a CT scan of the brain to confirm that a stroke has occurred. These dogs are also likely to be hospitalized during this time in order to stabilize their overall health.
Treatment
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Both situations require immediate veterinary care, though the course of treatment is different for each. Dogs that have ingested ibuprofen will be hospitalized and given IV fluids to help flush the medication out of their system. Activated charcoal can also be used to help absorb ibuprofen if ingestion has occurred less than two hours prior. The dog will also require medications to treat stomach ulcers.
Dogs who have suffered from a stroke will be hospitalized while the veterinarian works to relieve brain swelling and any tissue damage that has occurred. Some dogs will require IV fluids and treatment for any other underlying health issues that may have contributed to the stroke. Medications can also be used to help relieve any discomfort or symptoms such as vomiting or seizures. Lastly, physical therapy may be required to help the dog relearn certain movements or commands.
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