Effective Solutions for Dog Nasal Duct Obstruction

Acquired conditions are often associated with conjunctivitis, dacryocystitis, and trauma. Upper respiratory infections and maxillary tooth diseases can lead to secondary inflammation in the nasolacrimal duct. Chronic inflammation of the lacrimal duct can stimulate the swelling of lacrimal epithelial cells, tissue proliferation, and scar formation, resulting in narrowing or obstruction of the lacrimal duct.

Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is characterized by epiphora. In cases of congenital duct anomalies, excessive tearing typically occurs a few weeks to months after weaning in puppies, affecting either one or both eyes. You may notice tear stains and a persistent discharge from the corners of the eyes, but there are usually no symptoms like pain or photophobia. If the obstruction is due to dacryocystitis, in addition to epiphora at the inner canthus, the dog may exhibit symptoms such as pain, swelling, and inflammatory discharge. In severe cases, symptoms can include purulent conjunctivitis and eyelid abscesses.

Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause, such as other eye diseases, and administering antibacterial and antiinflammatory medications. To remove any foreign bodies or inflammatory products that may be present in the nasolacrimal duct, a lavage procedure should be performed.

Firstly, the dog is anesthetized using a general anesthetic. A dose of 0.5mL of Xianshenxin, administered intramuscularly at a rate of 0.1mL/kg body weight, is used. The dog is then placed in a lateral recumbent position, with the affected eye facing upwards. Locate the lacrimal punctum on the thicker part of the upper eyelid, approximately 2 to 5mm from the inner canthus. Insert the lavage needle along the nasal direction of the punctum. Once the needle is inserted about 1 cm deep, attach an syringe filled with a 1% procaine penicillin solution and flush repeatedly. Continue the lavage until you feel the resistance decrease continuously, and fluid begins to slowly drain from the nostril on the affected side, gradually increasing from a dot to a line. This indicates a successful lavage. Afterward, allow the dog to recover from the anesthetic and inject 0.5mL of a reversal agent, such as Xueshenxin, intravenously.