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Information About Sinus Infections in Dogs

Tess Thompson

Sinuses are air-filled cavities in the bones of the skull that meet the nasal cavities. Sinus infections are one of the many infections that can affect the health and behavior of your dog during its lifetime. Dog sinus infections are a common occurrence and may be bacterial, viral or fungal in nature.

Aspergillosis is a common fungal sinus disease that is caused primarily by Aspergillus fumigatus. Infection is usually in the nasal cavity and sinuses. Although it can affect healthy animals as well, a weak immune system, a history of sinus infections, diabetes, and a protracted antibiotic treatment can put a dog in the high risk category for a sinus infection.

Aspergillus fumigates is present all over the environment, and a dog may inhale Aspergillus spores. This leads to fungal infection. Most sinus infections tend to be localized and remain restricted to the sinus or the nasal passage. However, the disease ranges from a mild form that affects only the surface of the mucosa to a more intense condition, where the bones of the sinus are destroyed.

Dog breeds with long noses are more susceptible to get sinus infections than breeds with a short nose. Therefore, collies and shepherds are at a higher risk than Pugs or Boston Terriers. Also, younger dogs are more vulnerable, as nearly 80% of the cases are reported in dogs of less than 7 years of age.

Typical signs of a sinus infection in dogs include sneezing, nasal discharge, bleeding from the nose, and ulcerations. The discharge from the dog’s nose is prolific and may alternate with bleeding from the nose. The ulcerations appear on the visible part of the dog’s nose.

A microscopic examination of swabs obtained from the nasal passage or fungal cultures of infected area are often confusing. This is mainly because healthy animals are also tested positive at times. Biopsy and blood tests are more effective and the veterinarian may use more than one diagnostic tool to confirm prevalence of the disease.

Though bacterial infections can be treated using antibiotics, there are no specific medicines for viral infections. Fungal infections are treated with anti-fungal drugs that are topical or systemic in nature. The success rate of treatment is high, but early detection of the infection and correct treatment plays a significant role. Alternative medicine, especially homeopathy, offers a wide range of natural remedies that can effectively treat different symptoms associated with sinus infections and the dog respiratory system.

Although not contagious, animals with a sinus infection should be handled with care, as it can cause serious eye disease in owners wearing contact lenses. On seeing the first signs of ulcerations on the dog’s nose or profuse nasal discharge, it is advisable to get your pet examined by a veterinarian immediately.

Sources
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&articleid=233
http://www.dog-health-guide.org/dogsinusinfection.html