What labs are abnormal with refeeding syndrome?
The hallmark biochemical feature of refeeding syndrome is hypophosphataemia. However, the syndrome is complex and may also feature abnormal sodium and fluid balance; changes in glucose, protein, and fat metabolism; thiamine deficiency; hypokalaemia; and hypomagnesaemia.
What are the symptoms of refeeding syndrome in dogs?
What are the clinical signs of refeeding syndrome?
- Anorexia and weight loss.
- Lethargy and weakness.
- Anemia (pale mucous membranes, increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate, and bounding pulses)
- Nausea/vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Restlessness.
- Red colored urine.
- Seizures/coma.
Which is the hallmark electrolyte imbalance associated with refeeding syndrome?
Hypophosphatemia is considered the hallmark of refeeding syndrome, although other imbalances may occur as well, including hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.
What are the signs of refeeding syndrome?
Refeeding Syndrome Symptoms
- Fatigue.
- Weakness.
- Confusion.
- Difficulty breathing.
- High blood pressure.
- Seizures.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Edema.
Is refeeding syndrome fatal?
Refeeding syndrome can occur when food is reintroduced too quickly after a period of starvation or malnourishment. This can lead to electrolyte imbalances and severe complications that can be fatal.
How do you treat a dog with refeeding syndrome?
When refeeding syndrome is suspected, the rate of feeding should be reduced immediately by 50-75%. A change to a diet with a lower carbohydrate amount can be considered.
How do you reverse refeeding syndrome?
People with refeeding syndrome need to regain normal levels of electrolytes. Doctors can achieve this by replacing electrolytes, usually intravenously. Replacing vitamins, such as thiamine, can also help to treat certain symptoms. A person will need continued vitamin and electrolyte replacement until levels stabilize.
How do you fix refeeding syndrome?
How do you prevent refeeding syndrome in dogs?
Theoretically, providing more calories via fat and protein instead of only carbohydrates may decrease the incidence and severity of refeeding syndrome, as there will be less insulin release. However, the ideal balance between carbohydrate and other energy sources is not known.
What is refeeding syndrome in dogs and cats?
In today’s VETgirl online veterinary CE video, we discuss refeeding syndrome, which is a condition that can occur after chronic malnourishment. This was first described during WWII and has since been well documented in human medicine.
How long does it take for refeeding syndrome to occur?
Refeeding syndrome usually occurs within the first 3-7 days. [ 1, 2 ] The number of feedings can be decreased and the amount at each meal increased gradually over the first ten days, until the animal is free fed (for non-gluttonous individuals) or placed on a plan to allow steady weight gain.
What are the biochemical features of refeeding syndrome?
The hallmark biochemical feature of refeeding syndrome is hypophosphataemia. However, the syndrome is complex and may also feature abnormal sodium and fluid balance; changes in glucose, protein, and fat metabolism; thiamine deficiency; hypokalaemia; and hypomagnesaemia.16
What should I do if my dog is refeeding?
When refeeding, feed a recovery/critical care diet, ideally, unless the patient has underlying conditions that warrant limitations in fat or protein (e.g., like pancreatitis and renal disease). When in doubt, check with a veterinary nutritionalist for treatment and management, if available.