Ear Infection

Otitis externa is an inflammation or infection of the external auditory canal. It can affect any age group but is more common in swimmers and people frequently exposed to water.

Causes:

• Bacterial infection (most common): Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus
• Fungal infection: e.g., Aspergillus or Candida (especially after antibiotic ear drops)
• Water exposure: prolonged moisture creates an ideal environment for infection
• Mechanical trauma: from use of cotton swabs, hearing aids, or scratching
• Allergic reactions: to ear products or earrings
• Dermatologic conditions: eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis

Symptoms:

• Ear pain (often severe)
• Itching in the ear canal
• Redness and swelling of the ear canal
• Discharge (clear, yellow, or pus-like)
• Feeling of fullness or blockage
• Decreased hearing
• Tenderness when the outer ear is pulled or pressed

Treatment:

Treament options including antibiotics as such neomycin.