Otitis externa
Symptoms of otitis externa include pain in the affected ear, difficulty hearing, itching, discharge from the ear, and swelling of the ear canal. In severe cases, the inflammation can spread to the surrounding tissue, leading to fever and difficulty swallowing.
There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing otitis externa, including frequent swimming or other water activities, living in a hot and humid climate, and having a compromised immune system. People who have eczema or dermatitis, or who have had ear surgery or have narrow ear canals, are also at increased risk.
Treatment for otitis externa typically involves the use of ear drops containing antibiotics or antifungal medications. Over-the-counter pain relief medication can also be used to manage ear pain. In severe cases, oral antibiotics or antifungal medications may be necessary.
If left unchecked it can lead to complications, including:
Infection: Otitis externa can lead to a bacterial or fungal infection of the ear canal. This can cause the symptoms of otitis externa to worsen, and may require additional treatment with antibiotics or antifungal medications.
Damage to the ear drum: If the infection spreads to the middle ear, it can cause damage to the ear drum (tympanic membrane). This can result in hearing loss or a change in hearing ability.
Spread of infection: If the infection is left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the head and neck, including the bones of the skull and the brain. This can be serious and may require hospitalization.
Skin damage: The ear canal is lined with delicate skin, which can become damaged and scarred as a result of otitis externa. This can lead to a narrowing of the ear canal, which can make it difficult to clean the ear and may cause hearing problems.
Allergic reactions: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to the medications used to treat otitis externa. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
To prevent otitis externa, it is important to keep the ear canal dry, especially after swimming or showering. This can be achieved by using earplugs or a towel to gently dry the ears after water activities. It is also important to avoid inserting objects, such as cotton swabs or bobby pins, into the ear canal as this can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.
In conclusion, otitis externa is a common condition that can be caused by water getting trapped in the ear canal and leading to the growth of bacteria or fungus. It can be treated with ear drops and pain relief medication, and can be prevented by keeping the ear canal dry and avoiding the insertion of foreign objects. If you are experiencing symptoms of otitis externa or have concerns about your ear health, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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