If your dog sneezes and coughs after going for a walk, it’s likely that your dog is suffering from sinus issues. Your dog may even have nasal discharge that looks like pus. It’s important to take your dog to the vet to have the issue diagnosed. They can examine the dog’s eyes, nasal passages, heart, and lungs to determine the cause.
Causes
If your dog is suffering from dog sinusitis, there are several possible causes. One cause could be a foreign body that has become lodged in the nasal cavity. In this case, your vet will likely prescribe antibiotics. In addition, he may recommend using a humidifier to keep the nasal passages clear of mucus.
Another possible cause is a cold or virus. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible. A vet will be able to properly diagnose the problem by examining the dog’s eyes, nose, and breathing patterns. In some cases, a vet may also suggest x-rays of the dog’s nose.
Dog sinus issues can result in runny nose, nasal discharge, sneezing, and labored breathing. Sometimes, the discharge may be colored, and your dog may sneeze frequently in an attempt to clear the nose of the mucus. Dog sinuses are very similar to those of humans. In addition to the nasal cavity, your dog’s sinuses are surrounded by mucous membranes, which are lined with mucus. Inflammation of these membranes is known as dog rhinitis.
Dog sinus problems may also be caused by an underlying condition. A fungal infection of the nasal sinuses is a common cause of chronic mucopurulent discharge. Clinical reports show that it accounts for 12-34% of nasal disorders in dogs. More veterinarians are becoming aware of the disease and are increasingly treating it. Two common types of fungal infections are Aspergillus and Penicillium spp.
Dog sinus issues can be caused by allergies and mechanical irritation of the nose. Depending on the type of infection, your dog may show symptoms of sneezing, nasal discharge, facial swelling, and labored breathing. If the infection is severe, mucous may also become bloody. The condition can also affect the dog’s sense of smell. Affected dogs may lose weight.
Treatment
Herbal dog sinus remedies are a proven way to treat your dog’s sinus problems. They include calendula, licorice, and lemon balm. Licorice is a natural anti-inflammatory and has anti-viral properties, which can help your dog fight the infection. Thyme is also an excellent herbal remedy for your dog, and its antiseptic properties can help alleviate pain and soothe muscle spasms and headaches.
Depending on the cause of the condition, rhinitis can be treated with medication, surgery, or supportive care. In severe cases, a veterinarian may recommend surgery to remove a foreign body or treat the infection with antibiotics. In mild cases, supportive care and antibiotics may be enough. However, if the infection is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, the veterinarian will likely recommend a different form of treatment.
If the cause of your dog’s sinus infection is a bacterial infection, the vet will likely prescribe antibiotics. If your dog has a fungal infection, they may prescribe an anti-fungal medicine as well. Viral infections are usually temporary and will clear up on their own. However, if you notice persistent symptoms, you should take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. Symptoms of dog sinus problems can include nosebleeds and loss of appetite.
The first treatment involves placing an 8F or 10F rigid canine urinary catheter into your dog’s frontal sinus. This is done to remove fungal plaques from the frontal sinus. After inserting the catheter, your veterinarian will perform a sinuscopic examination alongside it.
Natural anti-inflammatories
If your dog has been suffering from sinusitis, it’s important to treat the condition as soon as possible. While some home treatments are effective, your vet may recommend prescription medication to control the inflammation. For chronic sinusitis, medications like inhaled steroids can reduce the swelling of the sinus membrane.
Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used to treat sinus infections in pets. They penetrate the sinuses and can even be prescribed long-term to prevent recurrences. However, antibiotics can have adverse effects on your dog’s overall health, including stomach ulcers and digestive problems.
Fortunately, you can also provide your dog with a natural anti-inflammatory remedy. Chondroitin and glucosamine can be bought as supplements and can help your dog get better. You can also try massaging your dog in a circular motion to help relieve the pain. Chiropractors also use acupressure to help ease inflammation.
Sinus infection is caused by bacterial infections that can invade the nasal passages. Sinus infections in dogs usually clear up on their own, but some dogs have more severe cases. If you notice your dog sneezing excessively or coughing more than once a day, your veterinarian may recommend antibiotics or natural anti-inflammatory remedies.
Your vet will perform a thorough exam to find the root cause of your dog’s sinus inflammation. He may also use x-rays to examine the nasal cavities and use an endoscope to examine the discharge. Timely diagnosis is critical to successful treatment. Prescription medications can treat nasal mites and tooth infections connected to the nasal area.
Another natural anti-inflammatory remedy is coconut oil. Coconut oil has antiviral and antibacterial properties that can suppress inflammatory responses in dogs. It can also be used to treat digestive issues and boost the immune system.
Diagnostic imaging studies
Diagnostic imaging studies can be performed to detect problems with the sinuses in dogs. These tests are performed with advanced equipment and expertise. Many CT procedures are performed under sedation to reduce risk to the patient. A CT (also called CAT scan) allows the veterinarian to see the anatomy of the nasal passages and detect mass lesions, foreign materials, and infectious organisms. A CT can also identify the location of a lesion and its cause. A board-certified radiologist reads these images.
A dog’s skull is complex. It is composed of a series of osseous structures and lines that must be studied in great detail. A physician’s attention to these details is critical when obtaining a CT of the skull. A mispositioned radiograph can cause a false-positive diagnosis. The best way to perform a CT is by using an imaging tool with a fixed angle.
CT scans can also detect tumors and other conditions within the sinuses. A CT scan can also be used to detect the spread of cancer. A CT scan of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses can also be used to plan surgery. The images from the CT scan can be reformatted into multiple planes. These images provide a more accurate picture than an x-ray.
A CT scan for dogs with sinus issues is important to identify underlying problems and determine the best treatment options. A dog may exhibit swollen nasal membranes, an abnormally soft frontal bone, a posterior nasal wall, or an irregular septum. In either case, a doctor may order an ultrasound of the nasal region.
