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Otitis Externa
Medical Questions » Otitis Externa
| Name: Otitis Externa |
| Also known as: Swimmer' s Ear; Tropical Ear |
| Bacterial and/or fungal infection of the ear canal. |
Causes of Otitis Externa
Most common cause is retained water in the ear canal, while other causes include irritating the ear canal with a cotton bud or similar object, badly fitting hearing aids, excess ear wax, sweating in dirty and dusty conditions, and dermatitis in the ear canal. Sea water is less likely to be a problem. Bacteria normally live in the outer ear, but if the canal remains constantly wet, the bacteria can invade tissue to cause an infection. If a fungus is the cause it is called tropical ear. More common in children because their narrower ear canals retain water easily. Prevented by drying drops used in the ear after each period of swimming or ear plugs. |
Symptoms of Otitis Externa
The outer ear canal and the outer surface of the eardrum become excruciatingly painful. The onset is often very rapid. As the infection progresses a discharge from the ear usually develops. |
Tests for Otitis Externa
In most cases, no investigations are necessary, but if the infection is persistent swabs may be taken so that the responsible bacteria and fungi can be identified. |
Treatment for Otitis Externa
Involves cleaning the ear of any wax or debris that may be present in the canal, and antibiotic drops or ointment. In difficult cases a wick (piece of light material) soaked in antibiotic ointment or drops may be put in the ear. Tropical ear is more difficult to cure and a prolonged course of antifungal drops or ointment and antifungal tablets is necessary.
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Complications of Otitis Externa of its treatment
Each infection can injure the ear and repeated attacks may cause permanent damage. Untreated infections can spread through the eardrum and cause a more serious middle ear infection (otitis media). |
Likely Outcome of Otitis Externa
Very good with correct treatment. |
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