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Internal bleeding is the leaking of blood from blood vessels and organs into spaces inside the body.
Actually, bruises are the result of capillary bleeding, but these occur in the skin and aren't serious.
What we're concerned about here is the deeper bleeding that involves arteries and veins.
Such bleeding can result in severe blood loss, leading to shock.
Know the Causes and Symptoms of Internal Bleeding
Besides knowing the symptoms of internal bleeding, it's also helpful to know what causes it.The main causes of internal bleeding are injuries created by a violent blunt force.
These might include such things as being thrown against an object, falling from a great distance, or being hit by an object (such as a vehicle).
Sharp objects such as broken bone fragments that damage the internal organs and blood vessels can also cause internal bleeding.
Here's a safe rule of thumb to follow -- in any serious injury, always suspect internal bleeding.
Symptoms of Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding symptoms are less obvious than those of external bleeding. In fact, an injured dog may appear "normal" at first.- Anxiety or restlessness
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Pale gums
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bruising in the injured area
- Abdominal pain
- Excessive thirst
- Weakness
- Vomiting blood
- Bleeding from mouth
- Bleeding from ears or nose
- Bleeding rectum
- Blood in dog's stool and/or urine
- Rapid breathing, shortness of breath
- Soft tissues, such as in the abdomen, are tender, swollen or hard
- Internal bleeding is likely to accompany broken bones
Treating Internal Bleeding
After Knowing The
Symptoms of Internal Bleeding
There really isn't much you can do in the way of first aid for internal bleeding. Your dog needs professional help--quickly. Now that you're familiar with the signs of internal bleeding, you know you need to get your dog to the vet right away. Here’s what you can do while you’re making fast plans to get him there:
Place him in a comfortable position, preferably lying down with his hind legs slightly raised- Treat for shock
- Cover him lightly with a blanket or coat to keep him warm
- Talk to him reassuringly
- Treat any external bleeding
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