Otitis externa (patient information): Difference between revisions
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Revision as of 14:02, 26 May 2016
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Otitis externa |
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Otitis externa On the Web |
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For the WikiDoc page for this topic, click here Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Luke Rusowicz-Orazem, B.S.
Overview
Otitis externa, often known as "swimmer's ear," is an inflammation of the external ear canal. The inflammation often begins when the skin in the outer ear becomes damaged and predisposed to infection by bacteria. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection from bacteria-contaminated water that enters the ear canal when an individual is swimming, diving, or performing other aquatic activities. Otitis externa can also be caused by a fungal infection, as well as allergies or exposure to chemical irritants causing otitis externa through eczema or seborrhea. Malignant otitis externa is a very rare form of the disease where the infection spreads past the ear canal and into ear and skull-base bones.
What are the symptoms of Otitis externa?
Common symptoms of otitis externa include the following:
- Ear pain
- Ear itching
- Ear canal swelling
- Ear canal redness and pressure
- Fluid discharge
- Scaley skin in the ear canal
- Partial hearing loss
Less common symptoms that are specific malignant otitis externa include the following:
What causes Otitis externa?
Who is at highest risk?
Diagnosis
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Otitis externa?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Condition