Otitis externa

Symptoms

The symptoms of otitis externa can vary depending on the severity and cause. The most common signs include

• Scratching or shaking of the head
• Redness, swelling or discharge from the ear
• Unpleasant odor from the ear
• Pain or tenderness when touching the ear
• Tilting of the head
• Hearing loss or loss of balance

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should not ignore them, as the inflammation can worsen and lead to complications.

Causes

There are various factors that can trigger otitis externa in dogs. These include:

• Parasites: Mites, fleas or ticks can lodge in the ear and cause irritation.
• Allergies: Some dogs are allergic to certain foods, pollen, dust or other substances that can trigger inflammation in the ear.
• Foreign bodies:Grass, seeds, sand or other small objects can get into the ear and cause irritation or injury.
• Infections: Bacteria, fungi or viruses can infect the ear and cause inflammation. This can be facilitated by an injury, a weakened immune system or a pre-existing illness.
• Anatomy: Some dog breeds have a narrow or hairy ear canal opening, which makes it difficult to ventilate and clean the ear. This can lead to a moist and warm environment that is ideal for the growth of microorganisms.

Treatment

The treatment of otitis externa depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In most cases, the veterinarian will examine the ear to make the diagnosis and determine the appropriate therapy. This may include the following:

• Cleaning the ear: the vet will gently clean the ear with a special solution to remove the dirt and discharge.
• Medication: The vet will prescribe either antibiotics, antifungals or antiparasitics depending on the type of infection. These can be administered as drops, ointments or tablets.
• Painkillers: The vet may also prescribe painkillers to relieve the discomfort.
• Surgery : In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a foreign body or to treat chronic inflammation.

Prevention

To prevent otitis externa in your dog, there are some simple measures you can take:

• Check your dog's ears regularly for signs of irritation or infection.
• Gently clean your dog's ears with a soft cloth or a special solution as directed by your vet.
• Keep your dog's ears dry, especially after bathing or swimming.
• Trim excess hair in the ear area or have it done by a professional groomer.
• Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other sharp objects into your dog's ear.
• Treat allergies or other conditions that can cause otitis externa.
• Protect your dog's ears from extreme temperatures, wind or sun.