Noisy breathing in dogs. Symptoms and treatment of laryngeal paralysis in dogs

Complete absence motor function limbs or immobilization of a body part in an animal constitutes a serious functional impairment in the form of paralysis. Depending on the underlying cause of the pathology, the owner may experience a sudden or gradual disturbance in the pet's movement. Most common cause paralysis are infectious diseases and injuries spinal cord.

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Types of pathology

IN veterinary practice there is a complex classification pathological conditions associated with the loss of a limb, organ or body part motor activity. The owner of the animal needs to know that the following types of disease in dogs are distinguished:

Paralysis that damages a single organ or part of it ( lower jaw, larynx) is called local. The cause of the disease is most often a severe injury or an acute infectious disease (larynx paralysis due to rabies).

The mechanism of occurrence of the disease always lies in a violation of the conduction of nerve impulses from the brain to the muscles of a particular organ. According to the type of disturbance of processes in the nervous system, paralysis is classified into functional, organic, central and peripheral.

Functional impairment is usually associated with the effect of a stress factor on the pet’s body. Organic paralysis occurs due to a malfunction of neurons (due to injury, neoplasm, damage to neurons by toxins, etc.). The central type of paralysis develops slowly and is irreversible. In the peripheral form of the disease, the owner notices a sudden fall of the pet onto its paws.

Causes of paralysis in dogs

The variety of factors leading to impaired motor function of the limbs in animals makes it difficult to identify the root cause of the pathology. In veterinary medicine, we most often have to deal with for the following reasons development of paralysis in dogs:

• Brain and spinal cord injuries. Falling from a height and being hit by a vehicle are the most common troubles that result in one or another type of paralysis. Often, a disruption of the neural connection between the central nervous system and a peripheral organ occurs with fractures of the spinal vertebrae, concussion and bruises of the brain, etc. Hemorrhage in the brain is usually accompanied by hemiplegia.
• Damage to the vertebrae not associated with mechanical impact. Degenerative processes with arthrosis, myelopathy, hernias in the cervical and thoracic regions spinal cord lesions often become the root cause of the development of paralysis of both hind legs in dogs, and also cause tetraplegia. The breeds most commonly affected by the disease are Dachshunds, Pekingese, french bulldogs, German Shepherds.

Owners often observe impaired motor function in animals in old age, which is due to wear and tear of the body.

For information on the causes and symptoms of hind leg paralysis in dogs, watch this video:

Hind legs, four limbs

Paralysis of the hind limbs in pets is a frequently observed phenomenon. An owner may encounter such a problem if their pet develops infectious disease(canine distemper), hernias, spinal injuries, aortic embolism. Paraparesis is observed with intoxication, neoplasms, and inflammation of the membranes of the brain.

Tetraplegia is most typical for injuries cervical region spine, canine distemper, rabies, poisoning toxic substances, botulism. In some cases, paralysis of all limbs can occur with tick-borne encephalitis in dogs.

Larynx

Paralysis of the lower jaw and larynx in an animal can develop due to infection dangerous virus rabies. Pathogen fatal infection penetrates into the brain along neurogenic pathways, causing a disruption in the transmission of impulses in individual organs and fabrics.

The larynx and lower jaw are most often affected. At the same time, the dog’s voice changes and becomes like a howl. At the sight of water, the swallowing muscles spasm, which causes pain in the dog. This phenomenon is called hydrophobia.

Symptoms of paralysis

Impaired motor function of the pet's limbs is characterized by a number of symptoms. First of all, the owner notices the loss of the ability to move and move one or all paws. If the disease strikes only hind limbs, then the animal drags them, leaning only on its front paws. The limb itself becomes soft or “woody”.

With paralysis, there is a dysfunction of urination and defecation. In some cases, the pet cannot empty itself bladder, the act of defecation becomes difficult.

The animal often experiences pain, tries to retire, hide, or shows aggression.

Treatment of dogs

Therapeutic measures depend on the underlying cause of paralysis. At infectious nature disease, the efforts of a veterinary specialist will be aimed at suppressing pathogenic microflora in the body. In the event that the cause of a neurological disease is destructive processes in spinal column, violation of the integrity of the vertebrae due to injuries, the use of novocaine blockades is effective.

A good result is achieved by a course of therapy with glucocorticosteroids (dexamethasone, prednisolone), B vitamins. For pain relief, antispasmodics- No-shpa, Spazgan, Baralgin.

In some cases, veterinary practice resorts to surgical treatment. If the cause of paralysis is injury to the vertebrae or tumors, then surgical intervention is possible.

When treating dogs with paralysis, the owner should be aware of the risk of complications such as bedsores, hypostatic pneumonia, etc.

Recovery after

A rehabilitation course should only be started with the permission of the treating veterinarian. The doctor will determine the types and intensity of exercise with your pet. Rehabilitation measures include primarily therapeutic measures. It is best to entrust the physical procedure to a professional. Good effect Regular infrared heating has an effect on weakened muscles without movement.

On the recommendation of a veterinary specialist, the owner can independently exercise the pet for 10-15 minutes several times a day. At first, with the help of supporting devices, the animal is taught to stand. In some cases, restoration of psychomotor functions responsible for walking occurs in a short period. A tripping and falling pet should be supported and secured using a harness system.

Speed ​​up the recovery process neural connections Swimming in special pools for animals helps to activate muscle activity.

Some owners categorically do not want to put up with their pet’s illness and improve its quality of life with the help of improvised wheelchair. The device is most often homemade, but allows a dog with paralyzed hind legs to move successfully.

Paralysis in animals has many causes, from spinal injuries to oncological tumors. The success of treatment depends not only on timely appeal to a veterinarian, but also from the root cause of the disease. The owner should be patient, as the rehabilitation period requires a lot of time and effort.

Useful video

For information on physiotherapeutic techniques for recovery after paralysis, watch this video:

Larynx (larynx) - area respiratory system. Its main tasks are to conduct air from the nasal cavity into the trachea, and form sound signals. Additionally, the larynx protects the lungs from food particles or vomit entering them. It is formed by cartilaginous rings connected by ligaments and joints. From a functional point of view, the arytenoid cartilage is most interesting for us - it is responsible for the regulation of breathing (mobility of the larynx) and the production of sounds.

Laryngeal paralysis is a disease characterized by a violation normal operation arytenoid cartilage. As a result, air begins to penetrate worse into the lungs, and respiratory failure develops. It can be unilateral and bilateral, congenital and acquired.
Due to the cause of occurrence, a distinction is made between idiopathic laryngeal paralysis and laryngeal paralysis as a consequence of any polyneuropathies - that is, systemic diseases leading to destruction or disruption of conductivity nerve fibers.
Breed predisposition in Rottweilers, Bull Terriers and Huskies.

Both congenital and acquired paralysis usually develop gradually.

Symptoms of development of paralysis on early stages- slight change in barking, hoarseness. Working dogs begin to lose tolerance physical activity, body thermoregulation is disrupted (they do not tolerate high air temperatures well).
The next stage may be characterized by swallowing problems (dysphagia), which can lead to aspiration pneumonia. As the condition worsens, the dog begins to choke, the mucous membranes acquire a bluish tint - at this stage, emergency intervention by a veterinarian is required.
When diagnosing, it is necessary to conduct a survey x-ray to exclude other causes. respiratory failure, it is also necessary to exclude diseases thyroid gland. For a final diagnosis, endoscopy is necessary. Dogs are also x-rayed chest to check for the possibility of developing aspiration pneumonia. Laryngeal paralysis is a rare pathology.
If the dog is already late stages development of paralysis, she must be admitted to a hospital to stabilize her condition.

Treatment of laryngeal paralysis
The only treatment is surgical. In some cases it can be cured systemic disease, which caused paralysis, before the onset of a critical condition, but in practice this happens quite rarely.
In the early stages, there are a number of recommendations that will delay the need for surgery:
? Avoid stressing your dog. For example, it is better to carry out all manipulations, including x-rays, under sedation rather than immobilizing the dog.
? Do not expose your dog to high temperatures. Definitely in hot weather wet towels, well ventilated area. You shouldn’t go to the other extreme either - you shouldn’t cover it with ice, just as you shouldn’t use stress methods, for example, water with a hose.
? Limitation of swimming and any exposure to water.
? Strict weight control! The dog should be in slightly below ideal condition.
? Use only a harness, a collar is contraindicated.
? Additional oxygen - useful way, but, unfortunately, practically not realizable, since a mask or small closed room will also be stressful for the dog.

Surgery is to provide sufficient space for air to pass into the larynx. Unilateral lateralization (tie-back), partial resection of the arytenoid cartilage, removal vocal cords.
A tracheostomy is usually used as a temporary solution; a lifelong tracheostomy will require ongoing care.

In most cases, the operation takes place without complications or with minor complications - there may be a cough when eating, loss of voice. In the postoperative period, infection and seroma formation may develop. More serious complications(seam separation, aspiration pneumonia) are quite rare when the intervention is carried out correctly.

After surgery, dogs with laryngeal paralysis have an improved quality of life.

Ekaterina Nigova
rehabilitation department employee
Veterinary center Zoostatus
especially for the site

Unilateral and bilateral paresis or paralysis of the laryngeal muscles has been described in dogs, cats and horses. Unilateral paralysis leads to moderate inspiratory shortness of breath and the appearance of noise when inhaling. Bilateral paralysis is accompanied by episodes of gagging, cyanosis, severe inspiratory dyspnea and collapse. The laryngeal muscles are innervated by the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which consists of branches of the vagus nerve. The neurons that give rise to the vagus nerve are located in the caudal part of the nucleus ambiguus. These neurons have the same topographic orientation with neurons innervating the adductor muscles of the larynx, located dorsally, as well as neurons involved in adduction of the larynx, located ventral to them in the nucleus ambiguus. 89 Damage to nerve fibers or cell bodies in the caudal part of the nucleus ambiguus is accompanied by clinical symptoms.

The diagnosis of laryngeal paralysis is made relatively simply by examining the larynx during all phases of breathing. Normally, during inspiration, the vocal cords and arytenoid cartilage are in an abducted state. Insufficient abduction of the vocal cords and arytenoid cartilage during inspiration or their presence in a paramedian position indicates laryngeal paresis or paralysis, respectively.

With a pronounced effort during inspiration, a paradoxical movement of the vocal cords is possible, giving a false impression of their normal movement. Therefore, during the examination, the help of an assistant is necessary, who will warn the doctor when the animal inhales and exhales. Laryngeal function in dogs and cats is assessed by direct examination. oral cavity. Alternative method is transnasal laryngoscopy. 90 Last method often used in horses. 91,92 Evaluation of laryngeal function in dogs and cats is also possible using ultrasound. 93,94 In dogs and cats, laryngeal examination is performed under sedation or light anesthesia. The depth of anesthesia and the choice of anesthetic are critical for correct assessment. Suitable sedatives for dogs and cats are acepromazine and butorphanol. 95 Acceptable anesthetics include ketamine, alone or in combination with diazepam, thiopental, or propofol. 95 Doxapram, a centrally acting respiratory stimulant, may help diagnose laryngeal paralysis in dogs by enhancing breathing movements And possible increase mobility of the arytenoid cartilage. 96.97

Dogs

Both congenital and acquired forms of laryngeal paralysis occur in dogs. An acquired form of laryngeal paralysis develops as part of a generalized polyneuropathy or myopathy. 98 However, laryngeal paralysis can develop in the absence of other neurological symptoms; in this case it is often called idiopathic paralysis. 21–30% of cases in two studies were congenital. 99,100

Congenital laryngeal paralysis. Most often found in combination with diffuse symptoms neuromuscular disease (see Chapter 7). Rarely isolated.

Bouvier des Flanders. Congenital laryngeal paralysis in Bouviers des Flanders is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner and can be unilateral or bilateral. 101,102 In a study of 105 affected Bouvier des Flandres dogs, their ages ranged from 4 months to 7 years, with most animals being between 4 and 8 months of age. Clinical signs appeared between 4 and 6 months of age. Examination of the larynx revealed bilateral paralysis in 28 dogs and unilateral paralysis in 71 dogs, with the lesion in all cases being on the left side. Three dogs had weak movement of both arytenoid cartilages, and three had normal abduction. Three dogs with normal abduction had adduction abnormalities. Three dogs also had pelvic limb weakness consistent with neuromuscular disease. Laryngeal electromyography findings were consistent with denervation of at least one muscle group larynx. Many dogs showed normal motor unit potentials combined with abnormal potentials consistent with denervation. Electrophysiological abnormalities were present as early as 8 weeks of age. The histological picture of many of the intrinsic muscles of the larynx, including the cricoarytenoid, was characteristic of atrophy due to denervation. Examination of the recurrent laryngeal nerve showed Wallerian degeneration. In addition, degeneration of neurons in the nucleus ambiguus was observed. 103

Huskies and their mixed breeds with malamute. Laryngeal paralysis has been described in husky dogs and their crossbreeds with malamutes. 104,105 Affected puppies were younger than 6 months, some clinical symptoms developed between 4 and 8 weeks of age. Bilateral or left-sided laryngeal paralysis was observed. Like Bouviers, these dogs showed degeneration and loss of neurons in the nucleus ambiguus. Peripheral nerves, including the recurrent laryngeal nerves, were normal.

White German Shepherds. Four cases have been described, presumably congenital form laryngeal paralysis German Shepherds pure white color. 106 The age of affected dogs ranged from 9 months. up to 2 years. Most early age The onset of inspiratory sounds was 5 months, and one dog developed exercise intolerance at 3 months. One dog was found to have concomitant megaesophagus. None of the dogs had other symptoms of neuromuscular disease.

Rottweilers. Cases of laryngeal paralysis in young Rottweilers in combination with three neurological diseases have been described - a complex of laryngeal paralysis-polyneuropathy, neuronal vacuolation and neuroaxonal dystrophy. 107-109 Dogs were admitted to the clinic between 11 and 16 weeks of age. 109 During the examination, wheezing noises were assessed predominantly during inspiration, but signs such as mild to mild tetraparesis were also observed. moderate degree, slowing down of postural reactions and weakening of spinal reflexes. Clinical symptoms appeared between 9 and 13 weeks of age. One dog with regurgitation was found to have megaesophagus. Most affected puppies also had cataracts. One puppy was diagnosed with sensorineural deafness based on the absence of auditory evoked potentials. Electrophysiological studies of the muscles of the limbs and larynx have shown denervation potentials, and studies with direct nerve stimulation have shown a decrease in complex muscle action potentials. Histological changes were characteristic of neurogenic atrophy of the muscles of the limbs and larynx against the background of axonal degeneration peripheral nerves, including the recurrent laryngeal nerve. The abnormalities were more noticeable in the distal areas, which is characteristic of distal peripheral neuropathy.

Cases of laryngeal paralysis in combination with neuronal vacuolation and degeneration of the spinocerebellar tract have also been described in Rottweilers. 108 Affected dogs exhibited mild tetraparesis and generalized proprioceptive ataxia. Over the course of several weeks, progressive weakness developed and whistling noises appeared on inspiration. At histological examination vacuolization of neurons of the cerebral cortex and nuclei of the thalamus, midbrain, cerebellum was detected, medulla oblongata and gray matter of the spinal cord. In addition, necrosis of axons of the dorsolateral and ventromedial white matter spinal cord. In the peripheral nervous system, vacuolation of neurons of the spinal ganglia was detected. In addition, atrophy of the laryngeal muscles due to denervation and axonal degeneration was noted, affecting mainly the distal portions of the large myelinated axons of the recurrent laryngeal nerve. 110,111 The muscles innervated by the cranial laryngeal nerves (cricohyoid and thyrohyoid) were normal. The changes were characteristic of distal axonal polyneuropathy. Similar clinicopathological changes were observed in mestizos. 112 A similar clinicopathological syndrome was described in two 6-month-old boxer puppies. 113 Dogs have had progressive pelvic limb paresis and ataxia, upper airway wheezes, and visual disturbances. Neurological disorders were characteristic of combined myelopathy and neuropathy. Interestingly, the dogs also had ocular disorders, including microphthalmia, cataracts and retinal dysplasia.

Dalmatians. A complex of laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy has been described in Dalmatians. 114 This condition is thought to be inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. The age of onset of clinical symptoms ranged from 2 to 6 months. One dog developed symptoms at 12 months of age. Along with typical symptoms laryngeal paralysis, some dogs had laryngeal spasms that required emergency treatment. Almost all dogs had associated neurological disorders, particularly megaesophagus and generalized signs of neuromuscular disease. Other symptoms developed before, simultaneously, or after laryngeal paralysis. Histological examination showed atrophy of the laryngeal and limb muscles due to denervation, as well as degeneration of the axons of the recurrent laryngeal nerve and the nerves innervating the limb muscles. Noted predominant defeat distal muscles and nerves of the limbs, especially large myelinated axons.

The prognosis was unfavorable. Most affected dogs died from aspiration pneumonia or were euthanized.

Pyrenean Mountain Dogs. Laryngeal paralysis has been described in Pyrenees mountain dogs. 115 The disease developed between the ages of 2½ and 6 months. It was also observed in animals general weakness and regurgitation. Bilateral or left-sided laryngeal paralysis was diagnosed. Electrophysiological study showed a decrease in complex muscle action potentials and a slight decrease in nerve conduction velocity, which is characteristic of axonopathy. It is assumed that the disorder is inherited in an autosomal manner.

Acquired laryngeal paralysis. Laryngeal paralysis occurs with chronic polyneuropathy (see Chapter 7), vagus nerve injuries during neck surgery, lead and organophosphorus poisoning, and infections of the retropharyngeal space. 99,116,117

Most often, this disorder occurs in middle-aged or elderly dogs and large breeds, in particular Labrador retrievers. Males have a predisposition. In one study, 25% of dogs undergoing surgery under anesthesia had some degree of laryngeal paresis as determined by laryngoscopy. 118 However, only 5% of dogs had clinical signs of obstruction. respiratory tract as a result of paralysis of the larynx. 118 Along with manifestation respiratory symptoms associated with laryngeal paralysis, many dogs coughed or choked when eating. Exercise intolerance was common. It is important to note that sick dogs should be carefully examined for the presence of other neurological disorders. Acquired laryngeal paralysis may be the most severe or only clinical manifestation of the underlying generalized neuromuscular disorder. 98,117 Based on the neurological findings and electrophysiological findings, it is likely that associated symptoms neuromuscular disease is associated with distal axonopathy, which may progress. 98 Hypothyroidism can also be the cause of polyneuropathy with concomitant laryngeal paralysis. 18 In the absence of detectable underlying neuromuscular disease, laryngeal palsy is classified as idiopathic.

For severe symptoms, corrective surgical interventions are used to widen the laryngeal fissure without impairing its ability to close during swallowing. For this purpose, a number of surgical technicians. 100,119–125 In general, unilateral arytenoid lateralization is preferred over bilateral lateralization or partial laryngotomy. In most cases, clinical symptoms improve or disappear after surgery. 119,120,122,126 The most common complication of surgical treatment of laryngeal palsy is aspiration pneumonia. 119,120,122,126,127 One study found that the presence of an underlying neurological disease significantly increased the likelihood of surgical complications and mortality. 120 Similarly, morbidity and mortality rates are higher after bilateral arytenoid lateralization than after unilateral lateralization or partial laryngectomy. 120 Dogs weighing less than 10 kg are less likely to improve after surgery. 126 Increased risk respiratory complications may remain for life.

Cats

Laryngeal paralysis is less common in cats than in dogs and horses. No breed or gender predisposition has been noted in cats. In the described cases, the causes of paralysis are iatrogenic injury to the vagus or recurrent laryngeal nerve during removal of the thyroid gland, surgical correction of open ductus arteriosus and perineural injections of irritants chemical substances, as well as neuromuscular diseases, neoplasms and idiopathic laryngeal paralysis. 128-132 Neoplasms can invade the vagus or recurrent laryngeal nerve or compress them anywhere along their course. Cases of paralysis of the larynx due to tumors of the bone tympanic bladder, compressing nervus vagus at the place where it exits tympanoccipital fissure. 133 One cat was found to have lymphoma infiltrating the cervical vagus nerve. 134 Another cat squamous cell carcinoma lungs spread to the vagus nerve, leading to laryngeal paralysis. 135 Unlike dogs, idiopathic laryngeal paralysis in cats can occur at any age. 93,128-131 It is believed that idiopathic laryngeal paralysis in young cats (
Horses

Laryngeal paralysis in horses can be various reasons. The underlying cause of paralysis can only be identified in a small number of cases. 137,138 Isolated injuries to structures adjacent to the entire length of the vagus and recurrent laryngeal nerves, including diseases of the laryngeal pouches, larynx, and pharynx, injections of irritating drugs into the area of ​​the nerve, and neck injuries, can cause paralysis. As in dogs, laryngeal paralysis in horses can be a manifestation of polyneuropathy or myopathy. In such cases, laryngeal paralysis is often accompanied by other symptoms of a generalized neuromuscular disorder. For example, laryngeal paralysis can develop against the background of hyperkalemic periodic paresis. 139,140 Laryngeal paralysis can also develop as a result of lead poisoning or some time after intoxication with organophosphorus compounds. 137,141 In horses, bilateral laryngeal paralysis is possible due to hepatic encephalopathy. 142 In such cases, the condition may improve once the hepatic encephalopathy resolves. 142 There are also cases of laryngeal paralysis after anesthesia. 143,144

In most horses, the underlying cause remains unclear, in which case the condition is called recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN). Most often, young and mature thoroughbred horses, gunters and draft horses are affected. 137,145 There has been a trend toward greater susceptibility in tall, long-necked horses. Pathological changes in foals suggests a hereditary nature, although this has not yet been proven. 146

Pathological changes are found mainly in the distal part of the left recurrent laryngeal nerve, but are also possible in the right recurrent laryngeal nerve. 147 Histological examination of the left and, to a lesser extent, the right recurrent laryngeal nerve reveals axonal degeneration with demyelination and subsequent regeneration. Apparently, the recurrent laryngeal nerve is the only one affected by this pathology. 147 However, some animals showed lesions in the nerves of the limbs and axons of the long tracts of the central nervous system(CNS). 148,149 The disease is characterized as a distal axonopathy, preferentially affecting the longest and largest fibers. Alternatively, it may occur as a distal axonal neuropathy, starting distally and spreading to the proximal portions of the nerve as it progresses. 147 The cause of NPC remains unknown. However, it is believed that metabolic disturbances in neurons place the distal portions of long nerve axons at greater risk, which also explains the greater susceptibility of large horses.

Clinical signs reflect upper airway dysfunction. Due to paralysis of the muscles innervated by the left recurrent laryngeal nerve, the vocal fold does not retract during inspiration, resulting in a noise ( wheezing). In addition to abnormal breath sounds, affected horses exhibit poor performance and exercise intolerance.

The diagnosis is made by the results of transnasal endoscopy, showing impaired laryngeal function. The severity of the disease is assessed by the severity of laryngeal dysfunction during endoscopy.

There are several classification schemes for NPC. 91,92,150 Perhaps the most sensitive diagnostic test for horses with suspected NPC is laryngeal endoscopy on a high-speed treadmill. 151 In addition, palpation can reveal unilateral atrophy of the laryngeal muscles. 152 Electrophysiological methods, including EMG and measurement of recurrent laryngeal nerve latency, are also used to assess laryngeal function, although these are technically challenging. In addition, to diagnose NPC, an assessment is used thoraco-laryngeal reflex a (reaction to a slap). A slap with the palm just caudal to the withers should cause adduction of the arytenoid cartilage. This method is used in combination with laryngeal endoscopy and electrophysiological studies, but is not sensitive enough and therefore cannot be considered a reliable criterion for making a diagnosis. 153 Surgical treatment is usually effective. 3,154,155 In Thoroughbred racehorses, performance generally improves after surgery, but in older horses performance may not reach previous levels. 156

Pharyngitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx - usually develops due to infectious process; usually not accompanied by serious clinical picture, but affects the dog’s ability to eat. When the infection spreads to the larynx and trachea, the dog develops a cough and the voice changes.

Presence in the throat foreign bodies also accompanied by inflammation of the pharynx and difficulty breathing.

The inner surface of the larynx is lined with mucous membrane, but unlike the lining of the trachea, the laryngeal mucosa does not contain cilia (structures that remove mucus and foreign particles).

Any condition of the body in which increased mucus production develops causes the dog to “clear its throat” in an attempt to remove what is bothering it; this can lead to the development of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx - laryngitis. Laryngitis can also occur due to barking loudly and infections. The disease is accompanied by a change or temporary loss of voice.

Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis is made based on clinical signs and a physical examination of the dog. Treatment is carried out by eliminating the cause of barking and re-educating the dog.

This serious pathology, developing predominantly in old dogs, especially the Labrador Retriever breed. In dogs of the Bouvier de Flandaise, Bull Terrier, Dalmatian breeds, Siberian Husky is believed to exist genetic predisposition to this disease. The main clinical signs of laryngeal paralysis are increasing difficulty breathing, accompanied by rough wheezing. Affected dogs show a decrease physical activity, fainting due to exertion, laryngeal edema.

Diagnosis and treatment
The diagnosis is made based on endoscopic examination larynx. The disease is practically untreatable, despite the fact that surgical methods correction of the defect, they all have a complication - after the operation, food enters the respiratory tract.

Laryngeal edema most often develops due to heatstroke, or an allergic (anaphylactic) reaction to an insect bite, or paralysis of the larynx. Clinical signs are: difficult rapid breathing, cyanosis ( Blue colour) mucous membranes of the oral cavity, weakness.

Diagnosis and treatment
For swelling of the larynx, surgical intervention is performed (a temporary or permanent tracheostomy is installed), corticosteroids and antihistamines are used. When allergic reaction You can also use adrenaline.

With tumors of the larynx, cough and difficulty breathing develop; swelling in the larynx that can be palpated through the skin; change or loss of voice. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx.

Diagnosis and treatment
The diagnosis is established on the basis of an endoscopic examination of the larynx and the results of a biopsy of tumor tissue. All tumors, both malignant and benign, are subject to surgical removal. After surgical intervention There remains a permanent hole in the trachea - a tracheostomy, which requires special care.

This is an unusual condition that is quite common in small dogs, particularly the breed Yorkshire Terrier. The dog develops a “snorting” attack that can last for a minute.

The reason for the development of “reverse sneezing” remains unclear. The disorder usually develops when the dog is excited, for example, when the owner returns home. Attacks occur frequently, but they are never very long-lasting.

Treatment is usually not required, although massage from the larynx to the front may shorten the duration of the attack. If your dog is experiencing attacks of laryngospasm and collapse, you should contact your veterinarian to rule out the presence of a foreign body in the larynx.

Laryngeal paralysis in animals is a disease in which the normal function arytenoid cartilage.

Larynx– an organ of the respiratory system that carries respiratory, protective and voice-forming functions. Through its channel, air from the environment enters the trachea and bronchi. In addition, the larynx protects the lungs from accidental entry of food and vomit into them.

The larynx consists of laryngeal cartilages, vocal cords and laryngeal muscles.

Laryngeal paralysis occurs due to dysfunction of the caudal laryngeal nerve, which leads to dysfunction of the arytenoid cartilage, which ensures the passage of air through the glottis during inhalation and exhalation. As a result, when the larynx is paralyzed, air cannot pass through the glottis in sufficient quantities, and the animal experiences respiratory failure.

There may be several reasons for dysfunction of the caudal laryngeal nerve:

• myasthenia gravis,
• endocrinopathy,
• peripheral neuropathy,
• dysfunction of the laryngeal muscles,
• dysfunction of the recurrent laryngeal nerve,
• Vagus nerve dysfunction.

However, the situation is often classified as an idiopathic process.

In dogs, laryngeal paralysis most often develops due to congenital or acquired neurological disorders. Congenital laryngeal paralysis is reported in breeds such as Bouvier des Flanders, Bull Terrier, Siberian Husky and German White Coat. herding dog. Most cases of acquired laryngeal paralysis are considered idiopathic. Other causes of laryngeal paralysis include trauma, various shapes polyneuropathies or polymyopathies, neoplasms and iatrogenic damage (tracheal collapse, nerve damage during thyroidectomy). With laryngeal paralysis, bilateral damage is most often observed. Unilateral lesions in dogs often remain asymptomatic.

In cats, unlike dogs, laryngeal paralysis is much less common. Cats are more predisposed to developing acquired laryngeal paralysis due to neoplasms in old age and are more likely to have unilateral lesions.

Laryngeal paralysis can be congenital or acquired. Heredity described of this disease in Rottweilers, Dalmatians, Siberian husky. Males are susceptible to the disease more often than females.

Laryngeal paralysis mainly develops in older dogs over the age of 8 years, but can also manifest itself up to one year in animals with a hereditary factor.

The disease is most common in giant and large breeds of dogs such as Rottweiler, Labrador, Irish Setter, etc.

Symptoms

Early signs of paralysis are difficult to notice. This may be a change in barking, hoarseness when breathing. Over time, exercise tolerance decreases. Since breathing is involved in general thermoregulation body, dogs do not tolerate heat well and often have elevated temperature bodies. In some cases, a cough occurs.

Some dogs may be asymptomatic. Factors such as obesity, stress, increased temperature and humidity worsen the course of the disease.

On physical examination, signs of laryngeal paralysis are not specific:

• progressive inspiratory stridor(wheezing noisy breathing)
• voice change,
• exercise intolerance,
• various forms of shortness of breath,
• cough, expectoration,
• vomit,
• cyanosis (blueness) of the mucous membranes,
• anxiety and excitement.

Whenever respiratory distress syndrome the animal requires immediate help.

Laryngeal paralysis may be accompanied by various degrees dysphagia (impaired swallowing), which significantly increases the likelihood of developing aspiration pneumonia.

It is important to understand that laryngeal paralysis usually develops slowly and, as a result, primary symptoms diseases may be overlooked.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of laryngeal paralysis comes down to a clinical examination and additional instrumental studies.

Overview radiographic examination identifies other causes of airway obstruction. secondary changes in the lungs (edema, pneumonia) and allows you to assess the size of the esophagus (excluding megaesophagus).

Ultrasound examination of the larynx allows you to evaluate the movement of cartilage.

The main diagnostic method is laryngoscopy followed by tracheobronchoscopy. Laryngoscopy allows us to evaluate not only structural features ligaments, cartilages of the larynx and trachea with bronchi, but also dynamic processes (closing and opening of the glottis during the inhalation and exhalation phases).

When performing laryngoscopy, it is necessary to differentiate laryngeal paralysis from hyperplasia velum, collapse of the larynx and various neoplasms.

Differential diagnosis

• Brachycephalic respiratory syndrome.
• Collapse of the larynx.
• Tracheal collapse.
• Neoplasms involving the upper respiratory tract.
• Foreign body of the upper respiratory tract.

Treatment

Animals with diagnosed laryngeal paralysis and asymptomatic course, as well as animals with mild signs, often require only correction of the environment (reducing movement, controlling temperature and humidity, avoiding stress) and reducing overweight. Also, correction of possible underlying diseases and complications of laryngeal paralysis (pulmonary edema, aspiration pneumonia) is carried out.

Animals in a state of moderate and severe respiratory distress are initially treated with conservative correction of the condition (sedation, corticosteroid therapy, oxygen therapy) up to temporary tracheostomy. Once the animal has been stabilized, surgical correction is attempted.

Surgical treatment of laryngeal paralysis is indicated for patients with severe signs of respiratory distress. The goal is to increase the lumen of the glottis and maintain adequate breathing during moderate loads, as well as maintaining the function of protecting the organ from aspiration pneumonia.

Many surgical techniques have been proposed to treat laryngeal paralysis:

• Partial laryngectomy.
• Lateralization of the arytenoid cartilage.
• Resection of the vocal fold.
• Repositioning of the muscular-nervous bundle

Unilateral arytenoid lateralization is considered the method of choice for laryngeal paralysis, but the choice of technique and the success of the operation largely depend on the experience of the physician.

Today, unilateral lateralization is the most popular and effective method treatment of laryngeal paralysis. The essence of this technique is to shift the arytenoid cartilage to a lateral position. Usually the displacement is carried out on one side. IN in rare cases on both sides, due to the high percentage of complications. Complications with unilateral lateralization account for up to 10% and are mainly characterized by the entry of food into the trachea through the open glottis. In 90% of cases, after surgery there is dramatic relief or complete recovery.

Possible postoperative complications– development of infection, seroma (fluid accumulation under the incision), loss of voice, coughing when eating or drinking. More serious complications are suture dehiscence and cartilage fragmentation, as well as aspiration pneumonia.

Despite the complexity of the operation and post-operative care, surgery is preferred when choosing treatment for laryngeal paralysis. In most percent of cases, the animal recovers and retains good quality life.

Prevention

• Use only a soft, comfortable harness where the leash is attached to a point opposite the chest.
• Never use a halti, ring choke or shock collar.
• Walk on a long soft leash and avoid using a leash because the spring tension may be quite sufficient to cause serious harm to the larynx.