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Dog GlaucomaDog glaucoma occurs when there is too much inner eye pressure and is a rather common eye problem in dogs.
Glaucoma is a condition that is a result of increased pressure within the eye.
Inside the eye between the lens and the cornea, there is a clear, thick watery substance called aqueous humor, the function of which is to keep the eye's shape as well
as to provide nourishment to the eye tissues.
Normal pressure in the eye is maintained if aqueous humor production and drainage through tiny ports (drainage angles) is well balanced.
In glaucoma, however, the drainage and production of aqueous humor is out of sync. In most cases, the drainage angles become clogged but the eye keeps producing fluid,
increasing the pressure in the eye.
The result? The eye stretches and becomes bigger. Even short-term rises in this eye pressure can lead to irreversible damage if not detected and treated in a timely
manner.
Dog glaucoma, if untreated, will lead to blindness. Complete blindness can occur within 24 hours if the pressure in the eye is extremely elevated or can occur
slowly over weeks or months if the the elevation is mild.
Two Types of GlaucomaThere are two types of glaucoma. Primary glaucoma refers to the condition that occurs as a result of genetics. It occurs in quite a few breeds. In particular, Labrador Retrievers, Basset Hounds, American Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Shar Peis have a higher incidence of dog glaucoma due to improper development of the drainage angles. As well, many of the terrier breeds have been found to have a predisposition for lens luxation which can also lead to glaucoma. Secondary glaucoma refers to the condition that is secondary to other eye diseases such as inflammation within the eye, displacement of the lens due to trauma, advanced cataracts, or eye injuries such as a penetrating wound to the eye. In addition, allergies and an overactive immune system are also believed to contribute to glaucoma in dogs.
Signs of Dog GlaucomaThe early signs are listed as follows. Even if your dog shows just one or two of these signs, consult a veterinarian immediately. Don't delay!
Diagnosis and Conventional Treatment of Glaucoma in DogsDiagnosis of dog glaucoma is through the use of an instrument called a "tonometer" which is placed directly on the surface of the cornea. It measures the exact pressure within the eye. If the pressure reading is elevated, then the vet will give the dog immediate treatment to prevent lasting damage to the eye. Conventional treatment involves the use of antiglaucoma drugs that help reduce the inner eye pressure, and then stabilizing this pressure to prevent future increases. Other drugs will also be given to decrease the production of aqueous humor and increase the size of the drainage angles. In addition, anti-inflammatory drugs will be prescribed for topical use in order to clear up any inflammation that might be aggravating the glaucoma. However, the drugs do not seem to work as well as they do in people. In most cases, the only long-term control of glaucoma is achieved through surgery or cryotherapy (freezing). In cryotherapy, a special needle is inserted into the eye, freezing the cells within the eye responsible for the production of aqueous humor.Herbal Remedies for Glaucoma in DogsWhile herbs cannot treat the condition, use of some herbs can at least reduce the inner eye pressure, thus bringing some relief of pain and discomfort to the poor animal. Bilberry Bilberry is effective in reducing inner eye pressure. It also contains nutrients that nourish the eyes. Here is a formula of natural bilberry: Integrative Therapeutics Bilberry Extract by Tyler for Dogs and CatsRelated Topics Dog Eye Problems Dog Pink Eye Dog Cataracts Herbal Dog Eye Drops and Remedies References R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000). Pitcairn and Pitcairn, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005). M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999). Glaucoma: An Eye Emergency TOP of Dog Glaucoma |
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