Epilepsy can occur in dogs as well as in humans. Epilepsy is considered to be a state in which the dog has repeated seizures intermittently. Visceral epilepsy is defined as seizures that occur with visceral changes, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Epilepsy is not the only condition that can cause seizures in dogs. Encephalitis, meningitis, hydrocephalus, poisoning, valley fever, tick fever, liver diseases, diabetes, kidney disease, hypothyroidism, infections and brain injuries are other possible causes. Most veterinarians believe that about 40 percent of the dogs that have seizures have epilepsy, and about 60 percent of seizures are caused by external circumstances.
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Identification
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Epilepsy is not a singular disease, and it can have several causes. Epilepsy can be genetic or it can be acquired later in life. Epilepsy causes seizures (or convulsions) and can cause many dogs have an "aura" right before the seizure, when they feel something different is happening. These dogs might run to their owners, pace, run in circles or whine excessively.
Symptoms
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The symptoms of visceral epilepsy are seizures or convulsions that are often characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, urination, loss of consciousness, paddling of the feet and jerking uncontrollably. Veterinarians might use the term "limbic" or "temporal lobe" to describe seizures with visceral changes.
Causes
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The exact cause of visceral epilepsy is unknown. Breeds that have a high incidence of genetic epilepsy include beagles, keeshonds, German shepherds, St. Bernards, schnauzers, cocker spaniels, Irish setters, poodles, Siberian huskies and Shetland sheepdogs.
Risk Factors
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Dogs that have visceral epilepsy might experience an increase in seizure activity when under stress. This can include a new baby in the household, a child leaving home, or a visit to a kennel. Physical symptoms, such as pain, ear infections or atopic dermatitis (which causes itching) may also lower the dog's seizure threshold. Females that are not spayed can also be at an increased risk of seizures because the increase in estrogen that occurs during the heat cycle. Seizure activity also increases at night, often while dogs are drifting off to sleep.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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When diagnosing epilepsy in dogs, the veterinarian will take into consideration the breed as well as age and overall health. There are no specific diagnostic tests that can confirm an epilepsy diagnosis; however, a veterinarian may perform an EEG. The diagnosis of epilepsy is usually made after all other causes of seizures have been eliminated. Anticonvulsant medications might be used to successfully treat visceral epilepsy. Dog on these medications might need to have periodic veterinarian visits to check the function of the liver.
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