Otitis Externa: Infection or inflammation of the external ear canal (swimmer's ear

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What is otitis externa?

Otitis externa, also known as swimmer's ear, is an inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in children and young adults.

What causes otitis externa?

Otitis externa can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Water trapped in the ear canal: This can happen after swimming, bathing, or showering. Water can also get trapped in the ear canal if you wear hearing aids or earplugs.
Skin conditions: Certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can make the skin in the ear canal more susceptible to inflammation and infection.
Earwax buildup: Excessive earwax buildup can block the ear canal and create a moist environment that is conducive to bacterial growth.
Injury to the ear canal: This can happen from using cotton swabs in the ears, putting objects in the ears, or scratching the ears.
Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust mites, and other allergens can cause inflammation and swelling in the ear canal.

What are the symptoms of otitis externa?

The most common symptom of otitis externa is ear pain. The pain may be mild or severe, and it may be worse when pulling on the earlobe or moving the jaw. Other symptoms of otitis externa may include:

Itching in the ear canal
Drainage from the ear (which may be thin and watery or thick and pus-like)
Redness and swelling of the outer ear
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Temporary hearing loss
Swollen lymph nodes in front of or behind the ear

How is otitis externa diagnosed?

Otitis externa is usually diagnosed by a physical examination of the ear. The doctor may look for signs of inflammation, infection, and earwax buildup. They may also ask about the patient's medical history and symptoms.

In some cases, the doctor may order additional tests, such as a culture of the ear discharge to identify the specific bacteria or fungus causing the infection.

How is otitis externa treated?

Treatment for otitis externa depends on the underlying cause. If the infection is caused by bacteria, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic eardrops or oral antibiotics. If the infection is caused by a fungus, the doctor may prescribe antifungal eardrops.

Other treatments for otitis externa may include:

Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to relieve ear pain.
Ear drops: Ear drops can help to reduce inflammation and infection, and they can also help to soften and remove earwax.
Warm compresses: Warm compresses applied to the ear can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream applied to the outer ear can help to reduce inflammation and itching.

How to prevent otitis externa?

There are a number of things you can do to prevent otitis externa, including:

Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming, bathing, or showering. You can do this by tilting your head to the side and gently pulling on your earlobe to straighten the ear canal.
Avoid putting objects in your ears. This includes cotton swabs, pencils, and bobby pins.
Use earplugs or a swimming cap when swimming in pools or lakes.
Treat any underlying skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
Clean your hearing aids regularly.

If you think you may have otitis externa, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early treatment can help to prevent complications, such as hearing loss and the spread of infection to other parts of the body.

Here are some additional tips for preventing otitis externa:

Use over-the-counter ear drops after swimming. This can help to remove water from the ear canal and prevent the growth of bacteria.
Teach your children how to dry their ears properly after swimming.
If you have allergies, take steps to control your symptoms. This may include avoiding allergens, taking allergy medication, or getting allergy shots.
If you have a skin condition that affects your ears, see a dermatologist for treatment.

Conclusion

Otitis externa is a common condition that can be treated effectively with antibiotics or antifungal medication. Early treatment is important to prevent, Dr. Isha Tyagi, renowned as the Best ENT Surgeon in Lucknow, is a distinguished medical professional dedicated to providing top-notch care in the field of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) medicine. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Dr. Tyagi stands out for her expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of ENT conditions.