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Otitis Externa
Moderate
Otitis externa, commonly called swimmer’s ear, is inflammation or infection of the outer ear and ear canal. It may develop suddenly or persist as a chronic problem. Bacterial infection is a common cause, particularly after water remains in the ear canal, although fungi and other causes are possible. Symptoms can include ear pain, itching, redness, swelling, drainage and discomfort when the outer ear is touched or moved.
Body System
Ears
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek prompt medical assessment for severe or rapidly worsening ear pain, fever, swelling around the ear, discharge that is worsening, hearing loss, dizziness, or facial weakness. People with diabetes or weakened immune systems may require particularly prompt evaluation.
Symptoms
3
Causes
0
Treatments
7
Diet
3
Overview
Otitis externa, commonly called swimmer’s ear, is inflammation or infection of the outer ear and ear canal. It may develop suddenly or persist as a chronic problem. Bacterial infection is a common cause, particularly after water remains in the ear canal, although fungi and other causes are possible. Symptoms can include ear pain, itching, redness, swelling, drainage and discomfort when the outer ear is touched or moved.
Symptoms 3
Ear Discharge
Ear Itching
Hearing Loss
Causes
Otitis externa commonly develops when bacteria enter and multiply in the ear canal, especially when moisture remains after swimming. Swimming in contaminated water can increase exposure to bacteria. Scratching the ear or damaging the skin with cotton swabs, fingernails or other objects can make infection more likely. Foreign objects may also injure the ear canal. Less commonly, fungal infection or an allergic reaction to substances placed in the ear can cause external ear inflammation.
Risk Factors
Risk factors include frequent swimming, exposure to contaminated water, moisture trapped in the ear canal and repeated irritation or injury to the canal skin. Cleaning the ears with cotton swabs or inserting other objects can damage the protective skin and increase risk. People with chronic skin conditions or allergies affecting the ear may also develop recurrent external ear inflammation.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Otitis externa is usually diagnosed from symptoms and examination of the outer ear and ear canal. The healthcare provider looks for redness, swelling, scaling, discharge or other signs of inflammation and infection. Pain when the outer ear is moved may support the diagnosis. Ear drainage may occasionally be tested when an infection does not improve or when the cause is uncertain. The examination also helps distinguish otitis externa from middle-ear disease and other causes of ear pain.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Keep the ears dry after swimming or bathing and avoid swimming in polluted water
Do not insert cotton swabs, fingernails or other objects into the ear canal because they can damage the skin
People who frequently develop swimmer’s ear may be advised by a healthcare provider about appropriate ear-drying measures
Hair sprays and dyes should be kept out of the ear canal
If an external ear infection develops, complete the recommended treatment to reduce the chance of persistent or more severe infection
Prevention Guidance
Keep the ears dry after swimming or bathing and avoid swimming in polluted water. Do not insert cotton swabs, fingernails or other objects into the ear canal because they can damage the skin. People who frequently develop swimmer’s ear may be advised by a healthcare provider about appropriate ear-drying measures. Hair sprays and dyes should be kept out of the ear canal. If an external ear infection develops, complete the recommended treatment to reduce the chance of persistent or more severe infection.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 7
Medical management of outer ear infection.
Ayurvedic support for ear wellness.
Supportive homeopathic care.
Supportive acupressure techniques.
Yoga for overall wellness.
Natural supportive care.
Traditional supportive care.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh fruits
Support immune health
Vegetables
Provide vitamins
Water
Supports hydration
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May impair recovery
Junk food
Low nutritional value
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Otitis externa is an infection of the outer ear canal, often called swimmer’s ear.
Excess moisture, bacterial infection, and injury to the ear canal are common causes.
Ear pain, itching, redness, swelling, and discharge are common symptoms.
Yes, frequent swimming increases the risk of otitis externa.
Keeping the ears dry and avoiding injury to the ear canal help prevent infection.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.