Nose and Sinus Inflammation in Dogs

The coughing, sneezing, and stuffy sensation that humans suffer from with sinuses mirror that of what a dog experiences. Sometimes, these problems may clear up on their own if it is an allergy or irritant that is causing the problem. However, in certain instances, sinus irritations and infections can be more serious.  

Sinus signs in dogs may be one of the easiest to recognize for humans, primarily because the signs for both groups are a lot alike. The signs include:

• Coughing
• Eyes and nose discharge
• Fever
• Gagging
• Lack of an appetite
• Loss of energy
• Nosebleeds
• Sneezing

Types

An infection within the sinus cavities, nose, and sinus inflammation may come as a result of bacteria entering into the nasal cavities in the head. Because there is nothing to protect the open pockets in a dog's sinus, it makes a dog especially susceptible to two types of infections - viral infections and bacterial infections - that enter through the nose.

Although sinus problems are a possibility for pets without these signs, pets who already suffer from allergies, asthma or a weak immune system may be more likely linked to nose and sinus inflammation. In certain instances, foxtails that can be found in rural areas may be the cause of what appear to be sinus-like systems but are often a very serious problem.

Nose and sinus inflammation in dogs can be tricky, primarily due to the fact that the original signs might appear minor.  While these signs may clear up in a couple of days, if pet owners notice nose bleeding, or discharge that is an unusual color, gray and cloudy, or thick and green, the dog needs to see a veterinarian.

Pet owners should immediately take their dogs to the veterinarian for nosebleeds, as this is may be a more serious issue for dogs, specifically, if discharge also comes out of the nose. Discharge could be related to a dental abscess, fungal infections or tumors. Foxtail grass, which can be linked to fatalities in dogs, can be ingested in the ears, eyes, genitals, nose, and feet. Foxtail may also be linked to pus in the chest cavity of dogs. Nasal mites (bugs) could also be found.

Veterinarians will perform a complete exam of the dog's eyes, nose, and breathing habits. X-rays and an endoscope may be used to examine the dog's sinus cavities and get a better look at the discharge from nosebleeds, eyes and anywhere else.

Timely diagnosis is the key to how well or how soon treatment can work. Nasal mites may be the cause of a dog's problems. These bugs, which enter through the nose, can be killed by a drug prescription.

Tooth infections connected to the nasal area may be treated by either removing the infected tooth or by a veterinarian providing a proper teeth cleaning.

Tumors inside of the nose cannot be treated due to the structure of the nose. Tumors cannot be surgically removed, so radiation therapy is the only other option to either get rid of or slow down the growth. 

Assuming a dog has a sinus infection rather than a foreign body or tumor, medication, including antibiotics, may be prescribed to get rid of the sinus infection.  The infection should only last for a week or two unless there are bigger health-related issues.  Foreign bodies, foxtails, or tumors will likely require further therapy or diagnostics.  

Avoid over-the-counter medication or any type of antibiotics not specifically prescribed by a veterinarian. Pet owners should also keep their dogs in warm, dry areas. Setting up a vaporizer to clear the air could expedite the healing process as well.