INCREASED INFECTIONS (SKIN/EARS) — ENDOCRINE LINK
WHAT THIS SYMPTOM USUALLY MEANS
Repeated skin or ear infections are strongly associated with endocrine disease— especially hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease.
MOST COMMON CAUSES
MILD
• Allergies
• Moisture in ears
• Poor grooming
MEDICAL
• Cushing’s
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Immune deficiency
• Chronic inflammation
EMERGENCY
• Severe swelling
• Blackened skin
• Painful ear hematomas
RED FLAGS
• Skin that smells “yeasty”
• Recurrent ear infections
• Increased thirst + infections
• Thin skin or hair loss
• If you’re unsure, treat it as urgent
AT-HOME CARE
• Regular ear cleaning
• Medicated shampoo
These do not replace a veterinary exam.
WHAT A VETERINARIAN WILL CHECK
• Thyroid panel
• Cortisol
• Blood glucose
• Skin cytology
• Ear cytology
MOST LIKELY DIAGNOSES
• Cushing’s
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Allergies
• Chronic dermatitis
RISK FACTORS
• Poodles, Terriers (Cushing’s)
• Goldens, Labs (hypothyroid)
WHEN TO SCHEDULE
• 7 days: mild recurrence
• 48 hrs: painful or severe infections
LONGEVITY IMPACT
Chronic infections signal systemic inflammation—an aging accelerator.
LONGEVITY CONSULT
Recommended for pets with 2+ infections per year.