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Addison's disease, or hypoadrenocorticisn, occurs when dogs suffer a deficiency of corticosteroid hormones. Corticosteroids, produced by the adrenal gland, allow dogs to adapt physiologically to stress. Without a sufficient supply, the dog's body becomes unbalanced. Initial symptoms may include listlessness and gastrointestinal distress. Without treatment, Addison's disease can lead to an Addisonian crisis. The animal goes into shock as blood sugar plummets, and potassium levels rise so high that the heart rhythm is affected. Heart rate decreases, and some episodes are fatal. Because the early signs of Addison's disease mimic so many other ailments, it is often not diagnosed until the animal goes into shock. Treatment focuses on replacing the missing hormones with oral or injected medications. |