Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear)
Otitis Externa, commonly known as swimmer’s ear, is an inflammation caused by an infection of the ear canal. This condition is typically caused by water or moisture becoming trapped in the ear. Swimmers and individuals regularly exposed to water are more likely to experience this condition.
Symptoms of Otitis Externa
- Itchy ear
- Redness of the ear pinna
- Swollen ear canal
- Muffled hearing
- Fullness in the ear
- Pain when touched
Treatment for Otitis Externa
- Your GP will usually prescribe antibiotics and possibly steroids to help with inflammation. Treatment generally lasts between 7-14 days.
- It is important to keep your ears dry during the treatment process.
- You can purchase a spray called Swimmer’s Ear, which contains acetic acid. This helps stop the growth of bacteria or fungus and contains a drying agent like glycerine or alcohol to dry the ear canal and prevent infection.
- Wearing moulded earplugs or caps while swimming can help prevent water from entering the ear and reduce the risk of infection.
FAQs
Most cases are caused by bacterial infections; however, some are caused by fungal infections.
Yes, you may be more prone to otitis externa if you dive or swim regularly, live in a high-humidity climate, use cotton buds that cause damage to the ear canal lining, or suffer from dermatitis.
The infection will only worsen if left untreated. It is best to visit your GP or practice nurse for treatment. If left untreated, the infection can cause perforations of the eardrum and spread to nearby tissues, causing serious complications.
If the infection is not responding to antibiotics, make another appointment with your GP or practice nurse. The infection may be resistant to the prescribed antibiotics, and a different course of treatment will be necessary.
No, it is advised to avoid swimming or getting water in your ears until the infection has cleared. Reintroducing moisture can cause the infection to flare up again, creating a perpetual cycle.
An outer ear infection (Otitis Externa) typically lasts up to 2 weeks. Chronic cases may last up to 3 months.
It is best to keep the ear dry. When showering, wear a shower cap and place a cotton wool ball coated with Vaseline to waterproof the cotton wool while washing your hair.
It is recommended to have the infected discharge removed professionally using microsuction. Avoid using water in the ear. After microsuction, begin using an antibiotic spray to quickly treat the infection at the site.
