A couple of years ago he was diagnosed with an asymptomatic heart murmur. He has been evaluated by an internal medicine specialist twice a year with an echocardiogram and, although the murmur had increased in intensity and there were some asymptomatic cardia changes, she did not feel that he needed medication. I also started him on Kan Essentials Bloods Palace.
Within the last year he developed a cough that the Internist and I both feel is due to tracheal collapse. I changed his herb to Xiao Chai Hu Tang and have been treating the cough and heart with acupuncture as well.
Two days ago in the late afternoon, Joey's respiration increased and seemed more labored. His gums were pale and tongue lavender. I took him to our local Emergency Clinic where he was evaluated and diagnosed with congestive heart failure. While there, he suddenly totally collapsed and developed nystagmus. I was pretty sure he was dying. They administered furosemide and, since I always have needles with me, treated several acupuncture points. He calmed somewhat but was still non-responsive. I opted to take him home since the prognosis was poor and I didn't want him dying in a crate. Once home, he stabilized and, miraculously, is now back to normal. The doctor at the emergency clinic did an ultrasound while treating him and believes that his left atrium ruptured!! Joey is currently on furosemide and Pimobendan but I would like to bring more to the table. I am going to formulate a more cardiac friendly homemade diet but do you have any herbal recommendations? Pulse is slightly weak and rapid and tongue is pale. Thank you for any advice you can give me to improve length and quality of life for Joey.