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The medical term for bloat is gastric dilation and volvulus syndrome (GDV). Gastric dilation occurs when the dog's stomach dilates yet maintains its normal position. A side effect of overeating, gastric dilation is common in puppies and is typically relieved by belching or vomiting. When gastric dilation and volvulus occurs, the stomach twists and closes off the openings leading in from the esophagus and out to the intestines. The dog is then unable to belch or vomit. Complications of GDV are serious and life-threatening and may include tissue damage from loss of blood flow to the abdominal area; shock from insufficient blood flow; a ruptured stomach from excessive pressure; and peritonitis, or inflammation of the membrane lining the abdominal cavity. |