An ear infection affecting the outer-ear canal. Otitis externa usually causes inflammation and swelling, discharge, and, in some people, eczema around the opening of the canal. The ear may be itchy and painful and blocked with pus, causing deafness. Generalized infection of the canal, and sometimes of the pinna (external ear), may be due to a fungal or bacterial infection. The ear may also sometimes become inflamed as part of a generalized skin disorder such as atopic eczema or seborrhoeic dermatitis. Often, the only treatment required for otitis externa is to keep the ear thoroughly clean and dry until the infection has cleared. Locally acting preparations containing antibiotic drugs, antifungal drugs, or corticosteroid drugs may be used. Oral antibiotics may be given to treat severe bacterial infections.
Otitis externa |
|
|