Vascular Accidents (AKA Strokes)
Introduction to Strokes in Veterinary Medicine
A stroke, or vascular accident/event, refers to a sudden disruption in blood flow to a portion of the brain, leading to impaired function. Strokes are classified into two types: infarcted strokes which are caused by a clot that obstructs blood flow, and hemorrhagic strokes that are characterized by bleeding in or around the brain.
Symptoms of a Stroke in pets
Strokes typically present with sudden-onset symptoms that stabilize and do not worsen after the first day. If you notice new symptoms developing or existing symptoms worsening, it is crucial to contact your neurology team immediately. Common symptoms of a stroke in pets include:
Seizures
Changes in personality
Loss of previously acquired training
Difficulty staying awake
Trouble sleeping
Challenges with walking
Dizziness or vertigo
Circling behavior
Sudden onset of blindness
Problems with eating, drinking, or swallowing
The black dots seen in this MRI are multiple strokes.
Conditions That May Cause Strokes in Pets
In approximately half of the cases where dogs and cats experience a stroke, an underlying cause is identified. Diagnosing and treating these underlying conditions is crucial to prevent recurrent strokes. Conditions commonly associated with strokes include:
High blood pressure
Kidney disease
Hyperadrenocorticism (commonly known as Cushing's Disease)
Hypothyroidism
Protein-losing kidney or intestinal diseases
Cancer, regardless of its location in the body
Heart disease
Will my pet be okay? Is this treatable?
Many pets who experience a stroke can achieve a good recovery, though this process may take several weeks. However, pets that suffer multiple strokes may face more challenges in recovering, and in some cases, may not fully recover.
There are no medications specifically designed to treat strokes in pets. The key to recovery typically involves time and, in some instances, physical therapy.
Diagnosis of Stroke In pets
Diagnosis of a stroke requires an MRI and sometimes other brain testing like a spinal tap or infectious disease.