When vestibular disease affects man's best friend, it often leaves owners quite concerned. Perhaps this is because symptoms of vestibular disease in dogs often resemble those of a stroke. Fortunately, in dogs, strokes are quite rare occurrences. As scary as vestibular disease may sound, often if the underlying cause is addressed, the condition is reversed and the dog may return to a normal life.
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Definition
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Vestibular disease takes place when the function of the dog's vestibular system is disrupted. There are several conditions that may interfere with the normal functioning of this important system.
Function
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The vestibular system is responsible for allowing the dog to coordinate eye and head movements, allowing dogs to balance themselves and perceive their spatial orientation. This complex sensory system originates in the dog's inner ear.
Causes
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The causes of vestibular disorders in dogs may be the following: severe ear infections, thiamine deficiencies, side effects from certain medications, the presence of brain infections, head traumas, or tumors. Often no underlying cause may be found; therefore the condition is called ''canine idiopathic vestibular syndrome'' or ''old dog vestibular disease'' because it often affects dogs of an average of 12 to 13 years old.
Symptoms
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Since the system responsible for the dog's coordination and sense of balance is affected, dogs will exhibit a staggering gait often causing them to fall, side-to-side eye movements (nystagmus), tilted head, and episodes of nausea and vomiting.
Treatment
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Treatment is based on assessing the underlying cause and treating it accordingly. Dogs affected by severe dizziness may be helped by medications such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or meclizine (Antivert).
Warning
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Dogs exhibiting signs of vestibular disease should undergo a prompt veterinarian visit. Because affected dogs are uncoordinated, they should be kept away from stairwells and prevented from bumping into furniture. Some dogs may require hand feeding.
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