Chronic Ear Problems

Return to Client Handout List

Overview

Inflammation of the external ear canal (otitis externa) is a very painful condition. It is a common reason for pet owners to seek our help. Most of the ear problems we see, have secondary infections with yeast and/or bacteria. These are opportunistic invaders that increase in numbers in an inflamed, hot and humid ear. Allergic conditions are often the underlying cause of the initially inflamed ear. Chronic otitis can be challenging to treat. Frequent rechecks are often required in order to obtain resolution of the problems.

Other Causes of Inflamed ears

• Foreign bodies (we see a lot of grass seeds in ears causing problems)
• Ear mites (much more common in cats)
• Conformation (flop over ears)
• Other diseases (hypothyroidism etc.)    

Diagnosis

1. Otic (Ear) Exam - to look for inflammation, exudate, foreign bodies, ear mites tumours etc.
2. Cytology - (microscope examination of material gathered from the ear.) We examine ear smears under the microscope in order to determine if there is bacteria, yeast, mites, and debris. It is very important to differentiate the various factors in inflammation in order to tailor the appropriate treatment.

Treatment Goals

1. Eliminate secondary bacteria and/or yeast infections
2. Reduce inflammation and pain
3. Eliminate underlying problems          

Ear Treatment Therapy

Treatment for Bacterial Otitis: 
We recommend an antibacterial flushing agent, such as a not irritating product called
"Tris EDTA"

•    Apply the Tris EDTA liberally inside the ear canal. Message for 30 seconds (or up to 5 minutes if the dog will tolerate the handling.) Then, let the dog shake its head. Gently wipe away debris on the surface. Repeat this procedure twice daily for 1 week, then once daily the following week.
  
•    One hour after cleaning with Tris EDTA, give your pet's ear the second prescribed solution, the
  anti-inflammatory/antibiotic solution ("Synotic with enrofloxacin.") Put it sparingly into the ear canal and message gently. As above, repeat this procedure twice daily for 1 week, then once daily the following week.
  
•    Use oral medications as prescribed.
  
•    Follow-up exam and recheck ear cytology in 7 days in order to modify treatments according to results.

Treatment for Yeast Otitis: 

•    Apply the Antifungal flushing agent “Blue Miracle Ear Cleaner” liberally inside the ear canal. Message for 30seconds (or for longer if the dog will allow it.) Then, let the dog shake its head. Gently wipe away debris on the surface. Repeat this procedure twice daily for 1 week, then once daily the following week.
  
• One hour after cleaning with “Blue Miracle,” Put the second prescribed medication into your pet's ear. It is an anti-inflammatory solution, "Synotic." Place the solution sparingly into the ear canal and message gently. As above, repeat this procedure twice daily for 1 week, then once daily the following week.
  
• Use oral medications as prescribed.
  
• Follow-up exam and recheck ear cytology in 7 days in order to modify treatments according to results.