“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Inflammation of the external ear, also known as otitis externa or swimmer's ear, is a condition that affects the skin that lines the ear canal. It is often caused by water that gets trapped in the ear canal, creating a moist environment that promotes the growth of bacteria or fungi.
Symptoms of otitis externa include ear pain, itching, redness, and swelling of the ear canal, as well as discharge and a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear. In severe cases, there may be fever, chills, and swelling of the lymph nodes.
Treatment for otitis externa involves removing any debris or discharge from the ear canal and using ear drops to kill the bacteria or fungi causing the infection. In some cases, oral antibiotics may be prescribed if the infection is severe or spreads beyond the ear canal. Pain relief medication may also be recommended to help manage any pain associated with the infection.
Prevention of otitis externa involves keeping the ear canal clean and dry, avoiding exposure to contaminated water, and using ear plugs or a swim cap while swimming. It is also important to avoid inserting foreign objects such as cotton swabs or hairpins into the ear canal, as this can damage the delicate skin and increase the risk of infection.
If left untreated, otitis externa can lead to complications such as a perforated eardrum, hearing loss, or spread of the infection to nearby tissues or structures. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of otitis externa or have any concerns about your ear health.