Diseases
otitis externa
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Otitis externa is a condition that causes inflammation (redness and swelling) of the external ear canal, which is the tube between the outer ear and eardrum. Otitis externa is often referred to as "swimmer's ear" because repeated exposure to water can make the ear canal more vulnerable to inflammation.
Symptoms
- itching in your ear canal
- slight redness inside your ear
- mild discomfort that's made worse by pulling on the outer ear
- increasing pain
Causes
- the ear's natural defenses: a thin, water-repellent, slightly acidic film lines the ear canal and discourages bacterial growth. earwax
Risk factors
- excess moisture in your ear canal
- exposure to high bacteria levels in contaminated water
- cleaning the ear canal with cotton swabs, hairpins or fingernails
Diagnosis
- examining the ear canal
- looking at the eardrum (tympanic membrane)
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is otitis externa?
Otitis externa is a condition that causes inflammation (redness and swelling) of the external ear canal, which is the tube between the outer ear and eardrum. Otitis externa is often referred to as "swimmer's ear" because repeated exposure to water can make the ear canal more vulnerable to inflammation.
What are the symptoms of otitis externa?
itching in your ear canal, slight redness inside your ear, mild discomfort that's made worse by pulling on the outer ear, increasing pain
What causes otitis externa?
the ear's natural defenses: a thin, water-repellent, slightly acidic film lines the ear canal and discourages bacterial growth. earwax
Which medicines are used for otitis externa?
ciprofloxacin, neomycin-polymyxin
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