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General Illness Information

Common Name:
Otitis Externa, Swimmer's ear

Medical Term:

 Otitis Externa.
Description: Inflammation or infection of the external ear canal that extends from the eardrum to the outside.

 
Causes: Bacterial or fungal infection of the delicate skin lining of the ear canal.

. Injury to the ear canal.

 
Prevention: Avoid preventable risk factors.

 
Signs & Symptoms

Discharge of pus from the ear.
Ear pain that worsens when the earlobe is pulled or pressed.
Itching in the ear.
Slight fever (sometimes).
Risk Factors

Swimming in polluted water.
Excessive swimming in chlorinated pools. Chlorinated water dries out the ear canal, allowing bacteria or fungi to enter the skin.
Immersing ears in hot tub with infected water.
. Excess moisture from any cause.
. Irritation from swabs; metal objects, such as bobby pins; or ear plugs, especially if they are left in a long time
Inadequate production of protective ear wax (cerumen).
Previous ear infections.
Skin allergies.
Diabetes mellitus or other disorders that predispose to infection.
Use of hair spray or hair dye that may enter the ear canal.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis made by examination of the ear. Fluid from the ear may occasionally be cultured.
General Measures:
Medication and supportive care to relieve pain.
Gentle cleaning of the ear canal.
Warm compress over the ear may help relieve the pain.
Keep the infected ear dry. Wear ear plugs or shower cap for showering.
Medications:
Ear drops that contain antibiotics and cortisone drugs to control inflammation and fight infection
Topical creams or ointments for fungal or bacterial infections
Oral antibiotics for severe infection.
Oral analgesics such as acetaminophen may be used for pain.
Activity:

Not restricted.
Diet:
As tolerated. No dietary restriction
Possible Complications :
Severe ear pain.
Cellulitis-infection may spread to deeper tissues.
Chronic infection.
Prognosis
Excellent with proper treatment.
Other

Nothing specified.