Help me solve this Mystery, pls! - Page 2 - YorkieTalk.com Forums

jbarile · 04-19-2005, 09:56 PM

What is a collapsed trachea?

The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is an important structure, which connects the throat to the lungs. It serves the purpose of directing air into the respiratory tract.

The normal trachea is tubular. It maintains its shape because of a series of rings made of cartilage. These rings do not completely encircle the trachea. Instead, they go from the 2 o'clock to 10 o'clock positions. The remainder of the trachea is composed of a flexible membrane that joins the ends of the cartilage rings.

When the cartilage rings are flattened from the top to the bottom, the trachea is said to be collapsed. Rapid inhalation of air can cause the trachea to flatten and make it difficult for air to enter the lungs.

Why does it happen?

We do not completely understand how this condition develops. However, we know that these dogs have an abnormality in the chemical makeup of their tracheal rings. The rings lose their stiffness so they are not able to retain their circular shape. We also know that it occurs in certain breeds of dogs, notably Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Toy Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers. Because of that, we suspect that there is a genetic factor involved.

What are the clinical signs?

The most common clinical sign is a chronic cough. It is often described as dry and harsh and can become quite pronounced. The term "goose honk" is often used to describe it. Coughing is often worse in the daytime and much less at night. The cough may also begin due to excitement, pressure on the trachea (from a leash), or from drinking water or eating.

How is a collapsed trachea diagnosed?

A dog of the breeds listed above with a chronic cough, especially a "goose honk," should be suspected as having collapsed trachea. Many times, very light pressure placed on the trachea during the physical examination can raise a suspicion of collapsed trachea in a small dog with a persistent dry cough. While the information gained from the physical examination is helpful, other tests are needed to confirm this condition.

Radiographs (x-rays) of the chest can identify the trachea and its shape. However, a collapsed trachea changes its diameter during the respiratory cycle. It is usually collapsed during inhalation and normal during exhalation. Therefore, we attempt to make radiographs during both phases of respiration. This is easy in some dogs and rather difficult in others since dogs are not likely to understand the command, "Take a deep breath and hold it."

Endoscopy is another way to visualize the trachea. An endoscope is a tube that is small enough to insert into the trachea; the operator can see through it and visualize the inside of the trachea. By watching the trachea during inspiration and expiration, abnormal collapsing can be seen. Unfortunately, tracheal endoscopes are expensive and not available at every veterinary hospital.

Isn't coughing also a sign of heart failure?

Yes, it is. Many dogs with collapsed trachea will also have heart disease. Testing that occurs when diagnosing this disease should include chest radiographs (x-rays) so the heart can be evaluated. Treatment for heart disease is not indicated unless it can be demonstrated with some form of testing.

How is it treated?

Collapsed trachea can be treated medically or surgically. Some dogs respond well to brochodilators and various types of anti-inflammatory drugs. The trachea of these dogs is easily infected, so antibiotics are usually part of the treatment. If obesity is present, weight loss is often beneficial. Excitement and vigorous exercise are likely to cause a relapse, so they should be avoided as much as possible.

Some dogs respond well to the medical approach, and others do not. Because medical therapy only treats the symptoms and does not correct the problem, these dogs are always subject to recurrences of coughing and breathing difficulty.

If medical therapy is not successful, the dog should be evaluated for possible surgery. Radiographs and endoscopy are used to determine how much of the trachea is collapsed. If the only abnormal part is that segment between the throat and the point where the trachea enters the chest (the thoracic inlet), surgery may be curative. However, if the segment of the trachea that is within the chest cavity is abnormal, surgery is not likely to be helpful because that part is not accessible to the surgeon.

There are several surgical approaches that have been used. Each approach implants an artificial support device that is secured around or within the trachea. The purpose of the support device is to hold the tracheal rings in their normal, open position. Although some dogs have excellent results and are truly cured of the disease, the outcome is not uniformly successful.

Reverse Sneezing
Reverse sneeze syndrome is characterized by a series of rapid, loud, forced inhalations through the nostrils, lasting anywhere from 10 seconds to 2 minutes. Attacks occur on a sporadic, unpredictable basis. Dogs usually have the head extended forward and stand still during the episode. Affected dogs appear completely normal before and after the attack. There is no loss of consciousness or collapse, though sometimes the appearance of the dog is upsetting to owners. Many dogs have these attacks throughout their lives. The exact cause of reverse sneezing is unknown, but it may be associated with sinusitis and other upper respiratory disorders. Many believe affected dogs are consciously removing mucus from the nasal passages. In fact, many dogs swallow at the end of the attack. Whatever the cause, the condition is usually not serious. If the condition appears suddenly in an older dog or if episodes become more severe or frequent, the nasal passages and throat should be examined.

Important Points in Treatment

Treatment is not necessary when the episodes occur infrequently on a random basis.
Home treatments that have been reported to be successful include massaging the throat, blowing in the nose, and rapidly and lightly compressing the chest.
Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:

The Severity or frequency of your pet's attacks changes.
Your pet develops a nasal discharge or a cough.
Your pet's general health changes.

YappyScrappy · 04-20-2005, 04:31 AM

I wish there was a website that had audio clips of these different conditions...

YappyScrappy · 04-24-2005, 01:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by YappyScrappy

Yes, I would like to know this also...Ruby does this hacking sound, too...she is bigger at 15lbs, but I guess that is still "small"

Also, my Mom's Catahoula Leopard Dog (35 lbs.) does that honking sound sometimes...sometimes with no excitement...but she is obviously large....could this be the same thing? The vet said something about "Asthma-like"

I really wish someone could answer this....

Bentley&BitsysMom · 04-24-2005, 02:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by YappyScrappy

I wish there was a website that had audio clips of these different conditions...

ME TOO!

mybirdys2003 · 04-24-2005, 02:09 PM

THat's a great site. I made the dog bed she tells y ou how to make, and SNoodles loves it! And, It was easy! Pat

jbarile · 04-24-2005, 03:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by YappyScrappy

I really wish someone could answer this....

the original question was What is the difference between a collapsed trachea? and reverse sneezing?
and that question was answered

snoody2004 · 04-24-2005, 03:51 PM

Im not sure of this but my idea of reverse sneezing is like flem that came out the mouth and collaped trachea is like you yorkie may die its a very vital ill diseas!e!

jbarile · 04-24-2005, 04:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bentley&BitsysMom

ME TOO!

This site is very helpful

http://yorkieviews.com/healthfacts.htm

Bentley&BitsysMom · 04-24-2005, 04:15 PM

I think yappyscrappy was referring to the fact that she wishes someone could find a web site with an audio clip of the differences. I do as well!!! It's still hard to tell by just reading the description although it is helpful I'm still not sure if mine have tracheal trouble or reverse sneezing.....but maybe it's just me and I'm a goofball

jbarile · 04-24-2005, 05:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bentley&BitsysMom

I think yappyscrappy was referring to the fact that she wishes someone could find a web site with an audio clip of the differences. I do as well!!! It's still hard to tell by just reading the description although it is helpful I'm still not sure if mine have tracheal trouble or reverse sneezing.....but maybe it's just me and I'm a goofball

No it is not you!! It is I that didn't clearly understand!!

should I find an audio site I will be back

Bentley&BitsysMom · 04-24-2005, 06:55 PM

That would be great!

04-20-2005, 04:31 AM	#17
YappyScrappy YT Addict Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Florida Posts: 370	I wish there was a website that had audio clips of these different conditions... __________________ Ruby on Dogster

04-24-2005, 03:51 PM	#22
snoody2004 YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: YT! Posts: 548	Reverse sneezing and collapsed trachea Im not sure of this but my idea of reverse sneezing is like flem that came out the mouth and collaped trachea is like you yorkie may die its a very vital ill diseas!e! __________________

04-24-2005, 04:15 PM	#24
Bentley&BitsysMom Donating YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Charlotte Posts: 2,836	I think yappyscrappy was referring to the fact that she wishes someone could find a web site with an audio clip of the differences. I do as well!!! It's still hard to tell by just reading the description although it is helpful I'm still not sure if mine have tracheal trouble or reverse sneezing.....but maybe it's just me and I'm a goofball __________________ Michelle BENTLEY, BITSY, CHARLIE, & BAILEY'S Mommy Dogster Pagehttp://www.dogster.com/?145000

04-24-2005, 06:55 PM	#26
Bentley&BitsysMom Donating YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Charlotte Posts: 2,836	That would be great! __________________ Michelle BENTLEY, BITSY, CHARLIE, & BAILEY'S Mommy Dogster Pagehttp://www.dogster.com/?145000

04-19-2005, 09:56 PM	#16
jbarile Tilly & Sami Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Syracuse, Utah Posts: 1,133	What is a collapsed trachea? The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is an important structure, which connects the throat to the lungs. It serves the purpose of directing air into the respiratory tract. The normal trachea is tubular. It maintains its shape because of a series of rings made of cartilage. These rings do not completely encircle the trachea. Instead, they go from the 2 o'clock to 10 o'clock positions. The remainder of the trachea is composed of a flexible membrane that joins the ends of the cartilage rings. When the cartilage rings are flattened from the top to the bottom, the trachea is said to be collapsed. Rapid inhalation of air can cause the trachea to flatten and make it difficult for air to enter the lungs. Why does it happen? We do not completely understand how this condition develops. However, we know that these dogs have an abnormality in the chemical makeup of their tracheal rings. The rings lose their stiffness so they are not able to retain their circular shape. We also know that it occurs in certain breeds of dogs, notably Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Toy Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers. Because of that, we suspect that there is a genetic factor involved. What are the clinical signs? The most common clinical sign is a chronic cough. It is often described as dry and harsh and can become quite pronounced. The term "goose honk" is often used to describe it. Coughing is often worse in the daytime and much less at night. The cough may also begin due to excitement, pressure on the trachea (from a leash), or from drinking water or eating. How is a collapsed trachea diagnosed? A dog of the breeds listed above with a chronic cough, especially a "goose honk," should be suspected as having collapsed trachea. Many times, very light pressure placed on the trachea during the physical examination can raise a suspicion of collapsed trachea in a small dog with a persistent dry cough. While the information gained from the physical examination is helpful, other tests are needed to confirm this condition. Radiographs (x-rays) of the chest can identify the trachea and its shape. However, a collapsed trachea changes its diameter during the respiratory cycle. It is usually collapsed during inhalation and normal during exhalation. Therefore, we attempt to make radiographs during both phases of respiration. This is easy in some dogs and rather difficult in others since dogs are not likely to understand the command, "Take a deep breath and hold it." Endoscopy is another way to visualize the trachea. An endoscope is a tube that is small enough to insert into the trachea; the operator can see through it and visualize the inside of the trachea. By watching the trachea during inspiration and expiration, abnormal collapsing can be seen. Unfortunately, tracheal endoscopes are expensive and not available at every veterinary hospital. Isn't coughing also a sign of heart failure? Yes, it is. Many dogs with collapsed trachea will also have heart disease. Testing that occurs when diagnosing this disease should include chest radiographs (x-rays) so the heart can be evaluated. Treatment for heart disease is not indicated unless it can be demonstrated with some form of testing. How is it treated? Collapsed trachea can be treated medically or surgically. Some dogs respond well to brochodilators and various types of anti-inflammatory drugs. The trachea of these dogs is easily infected, so antibiotics are usually part of the treatment. If obesity is present, weight loss is often beneficial. Excitement and vigorous exercise are likely to cause a relapse, so they should be avoided as much as possible. Some dogs respond well to the medical approach, and others do not. Because medical therapy only treats the symptoms and does not correct the problem, these dogs are always subject to recurrences of coughing and breathing difficulty. If medical therapy is not successful, the dog should be evaluated for possible surgery. Radiographs and endoscopy are used to determine how much of the trachea is collapsed. If the only abnormal part is that segment between the throat and the point where the trachea enters the chest (the thoracic inlet), surgery may be curative. However, if the segment of the trachea that is within the chest cavity is abnormal, surgery is not likely to be helpful because that part is not accessible to the surgeon. There are several surgical approaches that have been used. Each approach implants an artificial support device that is secured around or within the trachea. The purpose of the support device is to hold the tracheal rings in their normal, open position. Although some dogs have excellent results and are truly cured of the disease, the outcome is not uniformly successful. Reverse Sneezing Reverse sneeze syndrome is characterized by a series of rapid, loud, forced inhalations through the nostrils, lasting anywhere from 10 seconds to 2 minutes. Attacks occur on a sporadic, unpredictable basis. Dogs usually have the head extended forward and stand still during the episode. Affected dogs appear completely normal before and after the attack. There is no loss of consciousness or collapse, though sometimes the appearance of the dog is upsetting to owners. Many dogs have these attacks throughout their lives. The exact cause of reverse sneezing is unknown, but it may be associated with sinusitis and other upper respiratory disorders. Many believe affected dogs are consciously removing mucus from the nasal passages. In fact, many dogs swallow at the end of the attack. Whatever the cause, the condition is usually not serious. If the condition appears suddenly in an older dog or if episodes become more severe or frequent, the nasal passages and throat should be examined. Important Points in Treatment Treatment is not necessary when the episodes occur infrequently on a random basis. Home treatments that have been reported to be successful include massaging the throat, blowing in the nose, and rapidly and lightly compressing the chest. Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur: The Severity or frequency of your pet's attacks changes. Your pet develops a nasal discharge or a cough. Your pet's general health changes.

04-24-2005, 02:09 PM	#20
mybirdys2003 YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 980	THat's a great site. I made the dog bed she tells y ou how to make, and SNoodles loves it! And, It was easy! Pat