What is an outer ear infection?
An outer ear infection is an infection of the outer opening of the ear and the ear canal that connects the outside of the ear to the eardrum. It is medically known as otitis externa. One common type of otitis externa is referred to as “swimmer’s ear”. This outer ear infection often results from exposure to moisture.
Swimming (or possibly even bathing or showering too frequently) can lead to an outer ear infection. The water left inside the ear canal can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
An infection can also occur if the thin layer of skin that lines the ear canal is injured. Intense scratching, using headphones, or placing cotton swabs in your ear can damage these delicate cells. When the layer of skin becomes damaged and inflamed, it can provide a foothold for bacteria.
Cerumen, or earwax, is the ear’s natural defence against infection, but constant exposure to moisture and scratching can deplete the ear of cerumen, making infections more likely.
Symptoms of otitis externa include:
swelling redness heat pain or discomfort in the ear discharge of pus itching excessive fluid drainage muffled or diminished hearing
Severe pain in the face, head, or neck can signify that the infection has advanced considerably. Symptoms accompanied by a fever or swollen lymph nodes may also indicate advanced infection. If you have ear pain with any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.
Swimming is the biggest risk factor for otitis externa, especially swimming in water with high levels of bacteria. Pools that are adequately chlorinated are less likely to spread bacteria.
Outer ear infections may heal on their own without treatment. Antibiotic eardrops are the most common treatment for an outer ear infection that has not healed on its own, and can be prescribed by your doctor. Doctors may also prescribe antibiotic drops mixed with steroids to reduce swelling in the ear canal. Source: Healthline