Otomycosis (Otitis Externa) Fungal Infection

This is a fungal infection which affects the outer ear. Around 10% of all infections are fungal-based and this type of infection is quite common in people who swim or surf or do any type of water sports.

Fungus grows best in warm moist conditions and more so in the warm summer months.

This type of infection will need treatment. If left, the fungal infection will grow and the symptoms will worsen.

Causes

  • Aspergillus: Produces black and white dots on the ends of spores; responsible for around 90% of fungal infections.
  • Candida: Produces a smelly thick creamy discharge; accounts for 10% of fungal infections.

Symptoms

  • Earache
  • Inflammation
  • Hearing loss
  • Severe pain
  • Burning & itching
  • Discharge
  • Tinnitus
  • Hearing loss

Treatment

You will be prescribed antifungal eardrops containing Fluconazole, Clotrimazole drops or Miconazole cream. These will be taken as prescribed, generally for 2–4 weeks.

You can buy Ear-Calm Spray from the pharmacist which contains 2% acetic acid to help with inflammation.

YOU MUST KEEP YOUR EARS DRY AT ALL TIMES

FAQs

The symptoms can be similar but bacterial infections account for 90% of all ear infections. However, if the infection is not responding to the antibiotic drops, it’s likely it’s a fungal infection. The presence of spores is a key indicator of Aspergillus.

Aspergillus and Candida species of fungus are the most common causes of Otomycosis.

Antifungal eardrops such as Clotrimazole, Fluconazole, or Miconazole cream are typically prescribed.

No. Otomycosis needs antifungal treatment prescribed from the GP. Left untreated, it can cause serious complications.

Usually between 2–4 weeks. Symptoms should begin improving within the first 2 weeks.

Yes, often a noticeable smelly creamy discharge is present.

You may experience temporary hearing loss and a feeling of fullness. If untreated, the infection may lead to eardrum perforation, hearing loss, and inner ear complications.

No. Avoid getting water in your ears as moisture feeds fungal growth.