Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)

By: Dr. Debra Primovic

Section: Information In-depth

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a condition that is centered initially in the stomach, but eventually can affect the entire body. Some problems that can result are:

  • Shock and cardiovascular complications
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Injured spleen
  • Secondary infection
  • Heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). The arrhythmias are caused by poor oxygenation to the heart (myocardial ischemia), release of toxins, electrolyte abnormalities, acid-base abnormalities, and gastric receptor stimulation.
  • Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
  • Aspiration pneumonia
  • Gastric necrosis
  • Gastric ulceration
  • Recurrence of dilation and/or volvulus

    These problems can persist even as the GDV is successfully resolved. Other medical problems can lead to symptoms similar to those encountered in GDV, and it is important to exclude these conditions before establishing a definite diagnosis.
    They are:

  • Gastric dilation without volvulus
  • Gluttony bloat (gastric distention from overeating)
  • Aerophagia, which is swallowing air due to difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
  • Ascites, or fluid accumulation in the abdomen
  • Torsion of the spleen
  • Diaphragmatic hernia with stomach herniation

     
    Printable Version
     
    Have a Pet Question?
    Send Your Pet Question to Dr. Jon
    and His Staff of Veterinarians Ask Dr. Jon
    Dr. Jon's Newsletter
    Yes! Send Me the Latest Health Information, Pet Tips, Pet Stories and more...
     
     

    Related Articles

    • 1 Vomiting in Dogs

      At one time or another your dog may have a bout of vomiting, usually from eating too much or too fast. Vomiting may be just a sign of a minor problem – or it could be something very serious.

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2 Abdominal Distension in Dogs

      Abdominal distension is an abnormal enlargement of the abdominal cavity, often caused by fluid accumulation or ascites. This term is usually reserved for abdominal enlargement due to causes other than...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3 Acute Collapse in Dogs

      If your dog suffers an acute collapse, he will sit down suddenly or lie down and won’t be able to get back up. He may even lose consciousness. Call or take your pet to your veterinarian immediately.

      Read MoreRead More
    • Related Articles
    • 1Abdominal Distension in Dogs

      Abdominal distension is an abnormal enlargement of the abdominal cavity, often caused by fluid accumulation or ascites. This term is usually reserved for abdominal enlargement due to causes other than...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2Acute Collapse in Dogs

      If your dog suffers an acute collapse, he will sit down suddenly or lie down and won’t be able to get back up. He may even lose consciousness. Call or take your pet to your veterinarian immediately.

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3Vomiting in Dogs

      At one time or another your dog may have a bout of vomiting, usually from eating too much or too fast. Vomiting may be just a sign of a minor problem – or it could be something very serious.

      Read MoreRead More
     

    Over 10,000 Veterinarian Approved Articles

    Dogs & Puppies
    Cats
    Related Articles
    • 1Abdominal Distension in Dogs

      Abdominal distension is an abnormal enlargement of the abdominal cavity, often caused by fluid accumulation or ascites. This term is usually reserved for abdominal enlargement due to causes other than...

      Read MoreRead More
    • 2Acute Collapse in Dogs

      If your dog suffers an acute collapse, he will sit down suddenly or lie down and won’t be able to get back up. He may even lose consciousness. Call or take your pet to your veterinarian immediately.

      Read MoreRead More
    • 3Vomiting in Dogs

      At one time or another your dog may have a bout of vomiting, usually from eating too much or too fast. Vomiting may be just a sign of a minor problem – or it could be something very serious.

      Read MoreRead More