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Peripheral Vestibular Syndrome

Peripheral vestibular syndrome, commonly referred as vestibular syndrome, is generally an abrupt condition that causes the loss of balance and the head to tilt. The syndrome is more frequent among older dogs, but it can also affect cats. Vestibular syndrome is not a life-threatening disorder. Some believe that there is an association between hypothyroidism and peripheral vestibular syndrome; therefore, blood tests should be completed to address this concern.

  1. Causes

    • Typically, the causes of vestibular syndrome are not known, but trauma or anxiety may be an issue. Risks that appear to be associated with the occurrence of this problem may consist of extremely hot weather, poor circulation and heart disease. All of these factors are causes that can have an effect on the flow of blood within the brain.

    Signs

    • The typical signs are rapid eye movements, loss of balance, head tilt and leaning to one side. At times, there may be the lack of coordination and a bit of paralysis that can signify that the syndrome is disturbing the brain. Also, prior to the trigger of the symptoms, your dog or cat may begin to vomit. Swelling of the outer or central ear can go along with this condition.

    Treatment

    • Peripheral vestibular syndrome mainly affects older animals, and the source is unidentified. If your pet is vomiting, intravenous (IV) fluid may be necessary. Tranquilizers may be given to dogs that are experiencing confusion. Corticosteroids also can be approved by your veterinarian, depending on the situation. If the condition is caused by a bacterial infection, your cat can be given antibiotics.

    Prognosis

    • In most circumstances, regardless of the severity of the early signs, prospects concerning this condition are quite good. In two to three days, most common cases of vestibular syndrome begin to improve. If the brain is affected or if there is an infection of the central ear, progress can take a while.

    Considerations

    • Even though this disorder takes place more in dogs that are large and medium-built, vestibular syndrome does not have any breed preferences. Pedigree and dogs that are mixed breeds can be influenced. Vestibular syndrome can develop within a couple of hours. Generally, when the disorder has started, it does not become worse.

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