Introduction
Matt Davies Harmony Communities knows that dogs frequently suffer from ear infections, and certain breeds are more prone to the condition than others.
Sometimes, as pet owners, we cannot recognize the early warning symptoms and do not become aware of the presence of infection until the ears become incredibly irritated, uncomfortable, and itchy. Thankfully, some measures can be taken to cut down on the amount of money spent on veterinary care and the number of times this agonizing illness occurs. You may also read through our article that explains how to alleviate the discomfort your dog is experiencing due to an ear infection.
Infections of the Ear: Their Various Forms and Root Causes
This article divides the forms of ear infections into two groups: outer ear infections (located on the exterior of the eardrum and tympanic membrane) and middle or inner ear infections (on the inside of the tympanic membrane).
The most common kind of ear infection is called an outer ear infection. It can be caused by several different things, including a moist environment, an excessive accumulation of wax (which can trap microorganisms), allergies that disturb the skin barrier, or trauma to the ear. In these situations, the external portion of the ear can get infected with one or more of the following: yeast (typically of the species Malassezia), cocci bacteria (frequently of the species Staphylococcus), and rod bacteria (commonly Pseudomonas sp.).
Infections of the inner ear, also known as middle ear infections, occur when a pathogen infects the part of the ear that is located behind the tympanic membrane. A chronic outer ear infection can lead to the development of a disease in the middle or inner ear due to damage to the tympanic membrane and exposure to pathogens. This is because bacteria, yeast, and fungi are all organisms capable of affecting these regions.
The Telltale Signs of an Ear Infection
Suppose your dog has ever suffered from an ear infection. In that case, you are well familiar with the symptoms, which are as follows: Indicators of the active and bothersome disease include shaking of the head, scratching with the back leg, rubbing the head on the couch or carpet, redness on the ear flap, and an occasionally odor and discharge. The trauma caused by the scratching might also result in the formation of a hot spot on the cheek from time to time.
When the infection is in its acute stage, these symptoms appear. The affected canal will be red and may be swollen. It may also have little lumps, and it will most likely have a thick discharge that is dark yellow or dark brown and has an offensive odor. There are some indications that something is amiss that are not as obvious. Your dog may have an early infection or inflammation in the outer ear canal if he holds his head slightly to one side or is modestly lethargic. Both of these symptoms indicate the possibility of an infection.
Read the article by Dr. Thompson to find out what can be causing your dog’s ears to smell and if it is an ear infection or if your dog has smelly ears and you are unsure if it is an ear infection. Visit your local veterinarian to receive an accurate diagnosis of an ear infection.
Infections of the middle and inner ear are more serious. Their symptoms include tilting the head, wandering in circles, anorexia or the inability to chew, drooling, nausea, and fast eye movements from side to side. This is a much more severe condition that must be treated by a veterinarian and may need to be taken to a specialist for the issue to be adequately resolved.
Conclusion
Matt Davies Harmony Communities would like to make sure you know that ear infections are painful and have the ability to make your pet go deaf. Please keep the above warning signs and refer to them regularly.
