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Cardiorespiratory disease, is disease of the heart and/or lungs.
Signs of cardiorespiratory disease can include general lethargy, loss of appetite, loss of weight, reluctance to exercise, coughing or sneezing, difficulty breathing, fainting, or pot belly.
During examination of your animal, the heart and lungs will be assessed to look for any change in heart rate or rhythm, or for a change in pattern of breathing or lung sounds. If an abnormality is detected at consultation, further tests may be appropriate to diagnose the condition.
Blood tests, blood pressure monitoring, or xrays (radiopgraphs) may be performed to rule out any underlying diseases which may either be causing the disease, or be present at the same time.
More specialised cardiac procedures including ECGs (Electrocardiographs), or echocardiography (Ultrasound of the heart), may be carried out to further aid in the diagnosis of any heart disease that may be present.
Endoscopy (looking at the airways with a fibreoptic camera) and bronchoalveolar lavage are very useful procedures in repiratory disease.
A combination of some of the above tests may be used to give the most accurate diagnosis and assist in formulating the best treatment plan for your pet.
We at the Drove Veterinary Hospital have extensive experience in cardio- respiratory investigation and management. We are fully equipeed with all the high tech equipment necessary for investigations including: Colour flow doppler ultrasound, ECG, Blood pressure monitoring, blood gas monitoring, digital imaging and video endoscopy.
In an emergency please telephone (01793) 522483 (24hrs).
Drove Veterinary Hospital, 252 Croft Road, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 4RW.
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