Otitis Externa |
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DESCRIPTION
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Otitis (o-TIE-tis) externa (ex-TER-na), also called swimmer's ear, is a skin infection of the outer ear canal (the area that extends from the eardrum to the outside of the ear). With treatment, the infection should be gone in 7 to 10 days.
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CAUSES
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The condition may be caused by either bacteria or a fungus. Swimming in dirty water or swimming frequently in pools with chlorine increase your chances of infection. You're also more likely to contract the problem if you have excess moisture in the ear, have had previous ear infections, or suffer from skin allergies.
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SYMPTOMS
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This condition is marked by plugged ears or ear pain that becomes worse when your ear lobe is pulled. Other possible symptoms are itching, a discharge of pus, short-term hearing loss, and fever.
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CARE
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Your doctor may gently clean your ear. You may need antibiotic ear medicine to fight the infection.
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