Canine Sinus Infections

Allergies

• Allergies can cause chronic sinus infections. Symptoms include sneezing, watery eyes and nasal discharge, as well as itchy skin. Although there is no cure for allergies, your veterinarian may prescribe an oral anti-inflammatory (prednisone) to lessen the symptoms.
  
  

Aspergillosis

• Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that produces a clear discharge, ulcerations on the outer area of the nose, pain in the nose and surrounding area, and sometimes a bloody discharge from the nose. Aspergillosis is treated by injecting an anti-fungal medication (clotrimazole) into the nasal cavity while your dog is anesthetized. Prognosis for dogs who have had this procedure is good, although the problem can reoccur.
  
  

Chondrosarcoma

• Chronic sinus infections can be caused by a sinus chondrosarcoma, which is a slow-growing, progressive tumor that causes nasal discharge and bleeding, sneezing, and facial deformities. Chondrosarcomas are very aggressive and can quickly spread to the brain. Surgery and/or radiation are usual treatments; however, the long-term prognosis for dogs with this condition is poor.
  
  

Dental Disease

• Infection from an infected tooth can spread to the sinus cavity and cause typical symptoms of sinus infections, such as nasal discharge, sneezing, and swelling. Treatment of the infected tooth either through antibiotics or extraction will eliminate the sinus infection.
  
  

Infuenza Virus

• The canine infuenza virus causes coughing and nasal discharge and may include fever. The virus can easily progress to pneumonia and can be fatal. Treatment of influenza in canines consists of antibiotics and supportive fluids.