The nervous system is a complex structure of nerves and muscles that allow mammals to function physically. A canine nerve disease can lead to difficulty for a dog to do the most basic activities, such as eating and walking.
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Types
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Different types of nerve diseases can affect dogs. A short list includes epilepsy, distemper, Cushing's disease, Addison's disease and cancer. There are many more diseases that can affect the neuromuscular system.
Symptoms
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Various symptoms indicate canine nerve disease, including muscle weakness, eating problems, difficulty walking, paralysis and twitching.
Tests
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According to Davies Veterinary Specialists, treating neuromuscular diseases starts with eradicating other diseases that may indirectly affect the nervous system. Tests for other diseases include blood tests, X-rays and ultrasounds. Further testing, such as a biopsy of the nerve and muscle, may be necessary.
Treatment
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Treatment for canine nerve diseases depends on the origin of the disease. If it is a hormonal disease, such as Cushing's disease or Addison's disease, corticosteroids may be used to replace hormones. Surgery is another treatment option for nerve disease.
Prognosis
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Some neurological conditions have good prognoses with the correct treatment, such as an under-active thyroid gland. Other conditions have poorer prognoses, like cancer or inherited neuropathy.
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