How long does idiopathic vestibular disease last?
With idiopathic vestibular disease, marked improvement is usually evident in dogs within this 72 hour time frame. The dog should recover and return to normal in 7 to 14 days (although in some dogs, a head tilt will still persist).
What causes idiopathic vestibular disease?
Causes of vestibular disease include middle or inner ear infections, drugs that are toxic to the ear, trauma or injury, tumors, and hypothyroidism. When no specific cause is found, the condition is called idiopathic vestibular syndrome.
Is there a cure for idiopathic vestibular disease?
Treatment of vestibular disease depends on the cause. If the condition is secondary to infection, tumor, or toxicity, the primary disease must be treated. In the case of idiopathic vestibular disease, there is no specific treatment. Animals must be kept confined in a safe place where they will not injure themselves.
What does idiopathic Vestibular Syndrome mean for dogs?
Most cases of vestibular disease are the result of a condition known as “idiopathic vestibular syndrome”. That means it is a disease with unknown cause. Sometimes this condition is also referred to as “geriatric vestibular syndrome”, or “old dog vestibular syndrome”. Why?
How are pharmacological treatments used to treat vestibular disorders?
Pharmacological treatments may be used to control symptoms, accelerate central compensation, and diminish psychological comorbidity. When medical treatment isn’t effective in controlling vertigo and other symptoms caused by vestibular system dysfunction, surgery may be considered.
How long does it take to treat vestibular disease in dogs?
Your pet may require treatment for a week or so, or maybe months to ensure the underlying cause of the vestibular disease is managed well. Whereas some of the central vestibular diseases may require life-long treatment.
Treatment of vestibular disease depends on the cause. If the condition is secondary to infection, tumor, or toxicity, the primary disease must be treated. In the case of idiopathic vestibular disease, there is no specific treatment. Animals must be kept confined in a safe place where they will not injure themselves.
What does idiopathic vestibular disease in dogs mean?
Idiopathic (meaning unknown cause) vestibular disease in dogs is a syndrome that looks really, really bad, but usually gets better all on its own with little or no treatment.
Pharmacological treatments may be used to control symptoms, accelerate central compensation, and diminish psychological comorbidity. When medical treatment isn’t effective in controlling vertigo and other symptoms caused by vestibular system dysfunction, surgery may be considered.
What should I do if my cat has vestibular disease?
Since most cases of vestibular disease in cats are idiopathic, the treatment is mainly supportive. Your vet may prescribe a medication that works to prevent nausea and vomiting. If your cat’s balance is severely impacted, they may require subtle changes in their living situation.
