Parturient Paresis, also known as milk fever, is a common condition that affects dairy cows within 48 hours of giving birth. The term is pronounced /pɑːtjʊəriənt pəˈriːsɪs/ and is spelled with the prefix "parturient" meaning relating to childbirth and the suffix "paresis" indicating a partial paralysis in the animal. The condition is caused by a sudden drop in calcium levels in the cow's blood, causing weakness, tremors, and difficulty standing. It can be treated by administering calcium supplements and providing supportive care.
Parturient paresis, also known as milk fever or hypocalcemia, is a condition that occurs in female mammals, especially cows, shortly after giving birth. It is characterized by a sudden drop in blood calcium levels, which leads to muscular weakness or paralysis.
During pregnancy, the growing fetus requires a significant amount of calcium for bone formation and other vital processes. In order to meet these demands, the pregnant animal increases calcium absorption from the diet and decreases elimination through urine. However, after giving birth, the sudden drop in calcium demand can disrupt the balance between calcium absorption and elimination, causing a calcium deficit in the blood.
The symptoms of parturient paresis typically manifest within a few days after calving. Affected animals often exhibit signs of discomfort, such as restlessness, depression, and decreased appetite. As the condition progresses, weakness and paralyzation of the muscles become evident, leading to difficulty standing or walking. In severe cases, recumbency or inability to rise may occur.
Prompt treatment is crucial in order to prevent complications and improve the animal's prognosis. Treatment involves administered intravenous calcium solutions to restore calcium levels in the blood. Additionally, supportive care such as fluid therapy and anti-inflammatory medications may be necessary to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
Parturient paresis can have significant economic implications in the dairy industry as affected cows experience a decrease in milk production and may suffer from other health issues. It is important for farmers to implement preventive measures, such as providing calcium-rich diets before and after calving, to reduce the risk of parturient paresis in their livestock.
The term "Parturient Paresis" derives from Latin and Greek roots. "Parturient" comes from the Latin word "parturire" meaning "to give birth" or "to be in labor". "Paresis" stems from the Greek word "parēsis", which refers to "paralysis" or "weakness".
Therefore, "Parturient Paresis" refers to a condition characterized by weakness or paralysis that occurs in postpartum mammals, particularly in cows, shortly after giving birth. This condition is also known as "milk fever" in cows.