Some Possibilities Quoted from my home vet book: INTERNAL OTITIS (INNER EAR INFECTION)
Internal Otitis is an inflammation and infection of the inner ear. Most cases are preceded by outer ear infections. Suspect internal otitis if the dog suddenly develops signs of LABYRINTHITIS. TREATMENT: This is an emergency. Take your dog to the vet.
LABYRINTHITIS
Diseases of the inner ear are characterized by labyrinthitis, or dizziness. The
labyrinthitis is part of a complex organ of balance composed of the semicircular canals, the utricle and saccule. The labyrinthitis is like a gyroscope. It's purpose is to synchronize eye movements and maintain posture, balance and coordination. A major cause of labyrinthitis is inner ear infection.
---A dog with labyrinthitis will often assume an abnormal posture, with his head tilted down on the affected side. Dizziness, lack of coordination and loss of balance are evident.The dog circles and leans toward the affected side and may exhibit rapid jerking movements of the eyeballs, a condition called NYSTAGMUS. Vomiting occurs in some cases.
---The prolonged administration of aminoglycoside and neomycin antibiotics can produce labyrinthitis, as well as deafness. Most ear preparations are capable of causing labyrinthitis and ear damage if they make contact with the sensitive structures of the inner ear. This is why the ears should never be flushed or medicated without first making sure that the eardrums are intact.
---Other diseases that can cause labyrinthitis include head trauma, brain tumor, poisoning, drug intoxication and a condition called idiopathic vestibular syndrome. Suspect one of these if your dog develops labyrinthitis without having had a prior ear infection.
---IDIOPATHIC VESTIBULAR SYNDROMEis a disease of unknown cause that affects middle-aged and older dogs. It is the 2nd most common cause of labyrinthitis, after inner ear infection. The onset is sudden. The dizziness, staggering and vomiting can be incapacitating. Vomiting may last for several days, in which case the dog may require intravenious fluids. Signs peak in 24 hrs, but some degree of imbalance persists for 3-6 wks. Recovery occurs in all cases. After recovery, some dogs experience a slight but permanent head tilt. |