How does a vet diagnose a collapsed trachea?

How does a vet diagnose a collapsed trachea?

How is a collapsing trachea diagnosed? During a physical exam, very light pressure placed on the trachea that causes coughing or breathing difficulty may raise suspicion of tracheal collapse. Tests such as radiography (X-rays) or use of an endoscope or bronchoscope are needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Can a dog live with a partially collapsed trachea?

This condition is not as scary as it may sound. In fact, “most dogs with collapsing tracheas do not experience a decrease in quality of life or in life expectancy as a result,” says Dr.

What do you need to know about collapsing trachea in dogs?

The frightening term “collapsing trachea” refers to a relatively common disease that causes chronic coughing and other symptoms in dogs. Below, learn everything you need to know about tracheal collapse in dogs. No single, specific cause has been identified to explain all cases of tracheal collapse in dogs.

When to euthanize a dog with tracheal collapse?

If your dog has reached a point of producing hacking sounds and struggling to get in the air to the lungs, you have to consider calling your vet to put him down. It is very heart-breaking, but it is better than watching your dog suffer through a completely collapsed trachea.

How is tracheal collapse treated in obese patients?

Most cases of tracheal collapse are treated with cough suppressants, bronchodilators, corticosteroids (to control inflammation), and/or antibiotics. In obese patients, weight loss helps decrease respiratory effort.

Are there any steroids for a collapsing trachea?

I generally do not prescribe steroids for collapsing trachea. There is a form of surgical intervention, called stenting, which involves the placement of a rigid structure into the windpipe to hold it open. Great progress has been made in the efficacy of this procedure over the last decade, but it still has pitfalls.