Otitis externa
Infection of the skin covering the outer ear canal that leads in to the ear drum, usually due to bacteria such as streptococcus, staphylococcus, or pseudomonas. Swimmer’s ear is usually caused by excessive water exposure. Infection with a fungus may also occur. When water pools in the ear canal (frequently trapped by wax), the skin will become soggy and serve as an inviting culture media for bacteria.
The first sign of otitis externa is that the ear feels full and may itch. Next the ear canal swells, ear drainage follows, and the ear is very painful, especially with movement of the outside portion of the ear. The ear canal can swell shut and the side of the face become swollen. The glands of the neck may enlarge, and it can become more difficult to open the jaw.
Moisture and irritation will prolong the course of otitis externa. For this reason, the ear should be kept dry. While showering or swimming, use an ear plug (one that is designed to keep water out), or use cotton with Vaseline on the outside. Scratching the inside of the ear or using Q-tips should be avoided. A hearing aid should be left out as much as possible until swelling and discharge stops. The most common treatment consists of antibiotic ear drops with or without an oral antibiotic. Antifungal drops may also be necessary for a fungal infection. A “wick” may need to be placed in the ear canal to stent it open and serve as a conduit for the ear drops. Suctioning the ear canal also helps.
Read Also:
- Otitis interna
A technically correct term that is hardly ever used, meaning inflammation or infarction of the inner ear. Labyrinthitis is the more commonly used term.
- Otitis media
Inflammation of the middle ear characterized by the accumulation of infected fluid in the middle ear, bulging of the eardrum, pain in the ear and, if eardrum is perforated, drainage of purulent material (pus) into the ear canal. Otitis media is the most frequent diagnosis in sick children in the U.S., especially affecting infants and […]
- Oto-
Prefix meaning ear, as in otology (the study and medical care of the ear) and otoplasty (plastic surgery to reshape the outer ear).
- Otolaryngologist
A physician specialized in diagnosing and treating diseases of the head and neck, especially those involving the ears, nose, and throat (ENT). Also called an ENT, ENT doctor, or ENT physician.
- Otolaryngology
A medical and surgical specialty concerned with the diagnosis, management, and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, throat (ENT) and related structures of the head and neck, including the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, and upper pharynx (mouth and throat). Subspecialty areas within otolaryngology include pediatric otolaryngology (children), otology/neurotology (ears, balance, […]