After Ruling Out Other Causes Of Chronic GI Disorders In Pets…
Part 2 (of 3): GI Issues In Pets
Part 1 explained that gastrointestinal issues in pets can stem from many factors, with leaky gut syndrome at the root. When these problems are left untreated/unresolved, they may evolve into more chronic conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). While these two disorders share overlapping symptoms, they are distinct in their causes and effects.
Understanding IBS:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the gastrointestinal system, meaning the digestive system appears structurally normal, but its function is impaired.
- Symptoms of IBS include:
- Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort.
- It’s often triggered by food sensitivities, stress, or imbalances in the gut microbiome.
Understanding IBD:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the intestines, causing chronic inflammation.
- Symptoms of IBD include:
- Vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, poor appetite, and abdominal discomfort.
- In severe cases, IBD can result in permanent damage to the intestines.
IBD causes chronic inflammation and structural changes in the GI tract, often leading to more severe symptoms and long-term health problems.
Diagnosing IBS and IBD:
Because the symptoms of IBS and IBD mimic hundreds of other diseases, it is critically important to rule out other potential causes.
The allopathic diagnostic workup typically includes:
- Blood Work – CBC, Blood Chemistry, Thyroid, Urinalysis, Pancreatitis screening, proper nutrient absorption.
- Fecal analysis for parasites and pathogens
- Abdominal X-rays.
- Abdominal Ultrasound
- If indicated, an intestinal biopsy is performed to diagnose IBD
An integrative diagnostic work up includes all of the above plus:
- Test for nutrient deficiencies
- Test for toxicities
- Evaluate the microbiome
- Test for leaky gut
- Bioenergetic testing
Western Medicine: Symptom Management vs. Root Cause
Traditional veterinary treatments, such as antibiotics, steroids, and prescription diets, tend to manage symptoms but don’t address the underlying gut imbalances that cause issues like IBS and IBD. This often leads to relapses, requiring ongoing treatments that only provide temporary relief.
Traditional Allopathic Treatments For IBS And IBD In Pets And Their Side Effects:
- Converting the pet to a highly processed prescription diet: Though they may offer some temporary relief, they are enzymatically dead, contain hormones, chemicals and genetically modified ingredients. They don’t restore balance to the gut microbiome or address the root causes of the dis-ease.
- Deworming: Often done empirically, not knowing if the product is needed or effective against suspected pathogens.
- Antibiotics: Kill beneficial bacteria, leading to gut imbalances and worsening leaky gut.
- Immunosuppressants and corticosteroids: Can result in immune suppression, weight gain and further damage to the tight junctions in the gut lining.
The next article, will explore integrative solutions for managing IBS and IBD in pets.
These solutions focus on healing the gut, reducing inflammation and supporting immune health through natural and holistic treatments.
Watch This Space For Part 3 (of 3) - Solutions!
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Read MoreReferences:
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00072/full
- https://www.msdvetmanual.com/digestive-system/inflammatory-bowel-disease/overview-of-inflammatory-bowel-disease-in-small-animals
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0051907
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1939-1676.2008.0080.x
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327922824_Irritable_Bowel_Syndrome_in_Dogs_A_Review
Disclaimer:
The content provided herein has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and reflects solely the professional opinion(s) of the author. It is not intended to serve as individualized medical advice, diagnose any condition, or endorse specific products or services for the treatment of illnesses. This information is strictly for educational purposes. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed healthcare professional of your choosing to pursue optimal health goals. Prior to initiating any changes mentioned herein or embarking on a new diet, exercise, or health regimen consultation with a licenced veterinarian is recommended. Any utilization of the information, resources, or recommendations contained herein is done at your own discretion and risk.
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