Non-specific GI treatment Flashcards
What are examples of non-specific treatment for GI problems?
Fluid therapy
Pain management
Nutritional support
Why is it important to correct the fluid electrolyte balance?
Leads to dehydration
Loss of H+ = metabolic alkalosis
Loss of Na, K, Cl
How do animals have their GI tract ‘rested’ and why is this done?
Starve for 1-2 days
Reduces gastric secretions, allows time for mucosa to heal and enterocytes to regenerate
Nutritional support includes special diets e.g. Hills and diet modifications such as chicken, rice and pasta. Why are bland foods sometimes recommended?
Easily digestible protein and carbs
Limits dietary fat
Why can an excess of dietary fat cause diarrhoea?
Unabsorbed fat is modified by GI bacteria
Decreases fat absorption n
Causes osmotic change- water drawn into intestines
Why may lactose free milk be given to an animal suffering from GI problems?
Mucosal damage can cause a decrease in lactase
Why may insoluble fibre be given to animals with GI problems?
Absorbs water and aids motility
Helps constipation, chronic D+ and colitis
Why is GI pain particularly painful?
Has specific stretch receptors
Unlike sharp injuries e.g. surgery
What analgesics can be given for GI pain?
Opiates
NSAIDs
Sedatives
Anti-spasmodics
How do opiates cause analgesia?
Inhibit nociceptors of CNS
Give two examples of opiates
Morphine
Butorphanol
When may NSAIDs be given? What is an issue with this?
Treating colic
Can cause ulcers in small animals
Give two examples of NSAIDs
Flunixin meglumine
Dipyrone
Phenylbutazone
Sedatives are given for sedation and to eliminate visceral pain in colic. Give two examples of sedatives
Xylazine
Detomidine
What do anti-spasmodics cause and how?
Inhibit M1 receptors (in GI)
Smooth muscle relaxation
