Pulmonic Stenosis

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                      General Information



Pulmonic stenosis is a narrowing or partial obstruction of the

pulmonary artery, valve or area of the heart adjacent to the

valve, that impairs blood flow from the right side of the heart

to the lungs.  As a result, less blood reaches the lungs, and

the heart must pump harder to get blood to the lungs to pick up

fresh oxygen.  If the narrowing is severe, heart failure may

occur because the heart itself is not receiving enough oxygen.

Most young dogs with pulmonic stenosis appear healthy but as they

age, difficult breathing, tiring on exercise and fainting may

occur.  As the condition worsens, signs of heart failure, such

as swelling of the abdomen and legs, may develop.  Other signs,

such as difficult breathing, weakness and fainting, become more

noticeable.  Pulmonic stenosis usually causes heart failure

before the dog reaches 3 years of age, but some dogs live a

normal life if the stenosis is mild.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  In some cases, surgical correction of the stenosis is

    possible.  The doctor will advise you if surgery would be

    appropriate for your pet.  In most instances, treatment is

    aimed at controlling signs of illness and prolonging life

    with medical and dietary treatment. 



2.  Radiographs (x-rays), electrocardiograms (EKG) and

    laboratory tests are necessary to diagnose the condition and

    evaluate the response to treatment. 



3.  Give all medicine as directed.  Call the doctor if you cannot

    give the medication. 



4.  Exercise:  Follow the instructions checked. 



    ____Allow normal activity. 



    ____Restrict exercise as follows: 





5.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked. 



    ____Feed the normal diet. 



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's signs recur or worsen.



    * Your pet has trouble breathing.



    * Your pet has seizures or fainting spells.



    * Your pet refuses to eat the recommended diet.