The canine vestibular system is responsible for balance, eye movement and a dog's perception of itself in space. Any disturbance of this system is termed vestibular disease. A common form of this condition is idiopathic vestibular disease, usually seen in older dogs. Although there is no cure, the disease often resolves itself.
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Vestibular System
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The receptors for the vestibular system are in the inner ear, and vestibular information is processed in the brain stem and cerebellum. A problem in the ear, such as an infection, or a problem in the brain, such as a tumor or lesion, may affect the vestibular system.
Symptoms
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Symptoms include dizziness, abnormal eye movements, leaning to one side and falling over. A dog with vestibular disease often shows the classic sign of standing with the head tilted to one side and a wide stance, and may become so nauseated and dizzy it refuses food and water.
Diagnosis
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Diagnosis is made with a medical history and examination. Vestibular disease mimics the effects of a stroke, so this must be ruled out. Sometimes, further diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, biopsy, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, are performed.
Causes
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Infection of the middle or inner ear, hypothyroidism, medications, tumors in the brain or ear, and encephalitis can cause vestibular disease. In idiopathic vestibular disease--also called geriatric vestibular syndrome--there is no known cause, but it is linked to old age.
Treatment
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Vestibular disease caused by ear infection, hypothyroidism and encephalitis is treated, respectively, with antibiotics, thyroid supplements or medication. Cases caused by brain or ear tumors may be treated with surgery. Geriatric vestibular syndrome usually resolves by itself within two weeks.
Care
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Although there is no specific treatment for geriatric vestibular syndrome, owners can help affected dogs by offering palatable bits of food by hand, helping the dog drink, calming and reassuring it, and keeping it from stairs until balance returns.
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