Effective Solutions for Dog Nasal Duct Obstruction: Wha

Acquired Obstruction: This condition is commonly associated with conjunctivitis, dacryocystitis, and trauma. Upper respiratory infections and maxillary tooth diseases can lead to secondary inflammation of 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 duct. If the obstruction is due to dacryocystitis, symptoms may include epiphora (excess tears), pain, swelling, and inflammatory discharge. In severe cases, symptoms can progress to purulent conjunctivitis and eyelid abscesses.

Symptoms: Dogs may exhibit a puslike discharge at the inner corner of their eyes, accompanied by a constant flow of tears. The fur below the eye corners may appear red due to longterm exposure to tears, leading to some hair loss in the area. To diagnose the condition, lift the dog's head and drop a few drops of 1% fluorescein solution into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye. Lower the dog's head after a few minutes; if the dye does not appear in the nostrils, it confirms the obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct.

In treating this condition, it is crucial to identify the underlying cause. Depending on the cause, various treatment methods are employed. For cases secondary to other eye diseases, the primary focus is on treating the underlying condition and addressing infection with antibiotics. To remove any foreign bodies or inflammatory debris within the nasolacrimal duct, a lavage procedure is performed. Due to the dog's restlessness, general anesthesia is typically administered to prevent any accidents.

Firstly, the dog is anesthetized by administering 0.5mL of a 0.1mL/kg dose of Xianshenxin intramuscularly. The dog is then placed in a lateral recumbent position with the affected eye facing upwards. Locate the lacrimal punctum, which is situated 2 to 5 mm from the inner canthus along the nasal direction, on the thicker part of the upper eyelid. Insert a medical nasolacrimal lavage needle along the punctum. Once the needle is inserted about 1 cm deep, attach an syringe filled with a premixed 1% procaine penicillin solution and flush repeatedly. Continue the lavage until resistance decreases and fluid slowly starts to drain from the nostril, increasing from a dot to a line. This indicates that the nasolacrimal duct is now clear, and the lavage has been successful. Afterward, the dog is placed in a contact restraint and a 0.5mL dose of Suxingling is administered intravenously to reverse the anesthesia.