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The Sleep Disorders Center Articles |
Recognizing Sleeping Disorder in DogsMost Common Sleeping Disorder in Dogs The most common sleeping disorder in dogs is that of sleep apnea, a condition that is also one of the most popular sleeping disorders among humans. English bulldogs are considered as being most susceptible to this particular form of sleeping disorder in dogs. Narcolepsy is another common sleeping disorder that pets experience, and the inheritance pattern of narcolepsy in dogs is absolutely distinct from that of humans and is in fact much better defined. When dogs experience narcolepsy, they do in fact experience some of the same symptoms as humans who suffer from this disorder do, such as: Insufficient nocturnal sleep, constant tiredness, and anxiety. There are certain stimulants that are prescribed for those who suffer from narcolepsy, which include: Methylphenidate, modafinil, dextroamphetamine, and pemoline. The major side effects of medications such as these are irritability, anxiety, a quickened heart rate, hypertension, substance abuse, and, paradoxically in some cases, disturbances of nocturnal sleep. The study of narcolepsy in animals, including obviously that of dogs, has in fact illuminated links with human narcolepsy and the information that has been found here is being used in research in order to try and find the actual underlying cause of the sleeping disorder itself. A comparison between the human gene map and the genes of dogs who suffer from narcolepsy has in fact fortunately led to the discovery of a literal and mutual deficiency in hypocretin, which is a chemical that is found in the brain that when absent seems to lead to the narcolepsy disorder. Other studies have shown that genetics plays an important role in the development of narcolepsy in dogs, although for the most part, a narcoleptic - whether dog or human - will in fact have no close relatives that share the disorder, and usually even if there is an identical twin involved even they will not suffer from the disorder. Proper treatment can help to decrease and relieve the suffering of narcolepsy, and the most important and often most difficult dilemma in this entire situation is that of a proper diagnosis. |
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Uncovering the Source of Adult Sleep Problems
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