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Treatment varies widely by patient and the severity of injury. Cries for long periods and is inconsolable.Go to an emergency room if your child has a blow to the head or body and: Symptoms are similar in children, but children may not notice subtle changes in behavior. Sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleeping more or less than usual.Difficulty thinking, concentrating and/or remembering new things.Increased confusion, agitation or restlessness.Headache that gets worse and doesn’t go away.
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Your veterinarian can guide you as to the expected recovery rate for your companion.Severe symptoms (call 911 or go to an emergency room) : There may be secondary effects from the injury which should be monitored. Continue CPR until your dog breathes on his own and has a steady heartbeat or until the veterinary staff can take over for you.Ī pet who has suffered trauma to the head should remain on a limited activity level for two weeks minimum after returning home from the hospital. Squeeze and release rhythmically at a rate of 80 compressions per minute.Ĥ. Keeping your arms straight, push down on the rib cage. (For puppies and toy breed dogs, put just your thumb on one side of the chest and the rest of your fingers on the other side.)ģ. Place one hand on top of the other over the widest portion of the rib cage, not over the heart. On a flat surface, lay your dog on his side.Ģ. If your dog’s heart stops beating it is important to perform CPR to get the blood moving through the circulatory system. Neurological testing will help your dog’s doctor to assess if there is a sudden change in mental status. If swelling occurs, diuretics and corticosteroids may provide some relief. Your pet will be closely monitored for signs of swelling in the brain while recovering from the trauma. These will most likely include intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Supportive measures will be offered to your pet as needed when you arrive at the veterinarian clinic. Wounds to the head often bleed profusely, and direct pressure should be applied to the laceration to stop the bleeding and a water or saline solution-soaked compress should be applied to protect it from infection during transport to the nearest veterinary clinic. Signs of shock include pale or bluish gums, irregular heart rate, lowered temperature, and slowed mental activity. If your dog’s heart stops then CPR should begin right away. If the patient loses consciousness during transportation, gently open the mouth and pull the tongue forward to clear the airway.
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Shock can be a life-threatening condition in cases of head trauma and efforts should be made to keep the injured animal calm and warm. Initial treatment should begin when the injury or symptoms of injury are first noticed.
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Several types of injuries to the brain can occur due to trauma to the head itself.Ĭoncussion - The most common form of head trauma a concussion is when the brain is violently traumatized from an impact, and can cause temporary or permanent damageĬontusion - A direct impact to the head causes this condition, characterized by bleeding on the brain.Ĭoup-Contrecoup - This occurs when there is a contusion at the site of impact and one on the opposite side from the brain hitting the inside of the skullĭiffuse Axonal - This is caused by strong shaking or rotation, and is characterized by tearing of the nerve tissues this condition can cause damage that is spread across several areas of the brain If you notice these signs, especially after a recent blow to the head, bring your pet into the veterinarian immediately for treatment. Cuts, bruises, or lumps on the head may indicate trauma to the head along with: The signs for dogs with head trauma are very similar to human symptoms.
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