Otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear, is an infection of the outer ear canal. It can be painful and uncomfortable, but with proper care, it usually clears up quickly.
What is Otitis Externa?
Otitis externa occurs when the skin in the ear canal becomes irritated or inflamed, allowing bacteria or fungi to grow. This infection can be caused by various factors.
Causes of Otitis Externa
Here are some common causes of otitis externa:
⦁ Moisture: Water trapped in the ear canal after swimming, showering, or bathing can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
⦁ Injury: Scratching, cleaning the ears with cotton swabs or other objects, or using earbuds can damage the skin in the ear canal.
⦁ Irritants: Exposure to chemicals, hair products, or other irritants can cause inflammation.
⦁ Skin conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can affect the ear canal.
Symptoms of Otitis Externa
The symptoms of otitis externa can vary, but often include:
⦁ Ear pain, especially when the outer ear is touched or pulled
⦁ Itching in the ear canal
⦁ Redness and swelling of the ear canal
⦁ Drainage from the ear, which may be clear, yellow, or green
⦁ Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
⦁ Muffled hearing
Prevention of Otitis Externa
Here are some tips to prevent otitis externa:
⦁ Dry your ears: After swimming or showering, gently dry your ears with a towel. You can also tilt your head to each side to help water drain out.
⦁ Avoid inserting objects: Do not insert cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects into your ear canal.
⦁ Use earplugs: When swimming, consider using earplugs to keep water out.
⦁ Avoid irritants: Be cautious with hair products, chemicals, and other potential irritants.
Treatment of Otitis Externa
Treatment for otitis externa typically involves:
⦁ Ear drops: Your doctor may prescribe ear drops containing antibiotics, antifungals, or steroids to reduce inflammation and fight infection.
⦁ Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage ear pain.
⦁ Cleaning: In some cases, your doctor may need to clean the ear canal to remove debris or discharge.
When to See a Doctor
It's important to see a doctor if you experience:
⦁ Severe ear pain
⦁ Drainage from the ear
⦁ Hearing loss
⦁ Symptoms that don't improve after a few days of home care
