Sinus Infection in Dogs and Cats - Symptoms and Treatment

Sinusitis is an inflammatory condition of the sinuses that is a consequence of an infection. This infection may occur due to bacteria, fungus, virus, and allergy or due to some autoimmune diseases. Newer nomenclature of sinusitis refers to it as rhino sinusitis. Inflammation of the sinuses (The sinuses are bony cavities in the skull that meet up with the nasal cavities) cannot occur without some inflammation of the nose as well (rhinitis).

In pets this sinusitis or more precisely sinus infections are generally caused due to infections caused by bacteria, fungus or viruses. Sinus infection sometimes even is linked with tooth abscesses. Sinusitis may also be caused by non-infectious ailments that might occur due to some allergens.

Symptoms of Sinus Infections

Sneezing
Discharge from eyes and nose
Coughing
Gagging
Postnasal drip
Decrease sense of smell.

Treatment of Sinus Infections

Well there are lots of herbs in ayurveda that has wonderful effects to treat away the problem of sinusitis. Below are some of the many herbs that are used in treating the sinusitis.

Pippali – One of the best known herb for treating all kinds of respiratory tract problems as well as a good herb that has antibiotic properties. This herb helps in countering the infection that is required to curb the infection. It is botanically known as Piper longum.

Tallish – tallish is botanically known as Abies Webbiana. It is known for its strong affinity for the mucus that gets deposited in the sinuses causing inflammation and becomes the feeding ground for bacterial growth. It is also helpful in treating all the anomalies of the respiratory tract.

Mulethi – It is in botanical tern known as Glycyrrhiza glabra and commonly known as Licorice. Mulethi or licorice is a potent anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-allergenic herb and is exceptional for reducing inflammation by exciting the anti-inflammatory hormone, cortisol. Licorice or mulethi originates in the Indian sub continent and the Middle East. It has diversified usage and is also very helpful in maintaining the proper digestive activities.

Bhumyaamalaki – Bhumya Amalaki or bhuiamlaki is botanically known as Phyllanthus amarus . Phyllanthus has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over five thousand years. Phyllanthus blocks DNA polymerase, the enzyme required for the hepatitis B virus to replicate. Fifty nine percent of those infected with chronic viral hepatitis B lost one of the major blood markers of HBV infection (e.g., hepatitis B surface antigen) after using phyllanthus for 30 days.