Outer ear infection (otitis externa)

Outer ear infection (otitis externa) | NHS inform Home Illnesses and conditions Symptoms and self-help Tests and treatments Healthy living Care, support and rights Scotlands Service Directory 0 Home Illnesses and conditions Ears, nose and throat Outer ear infection (otitis externa) Outer ear infection (otitis externa) Otitis externa is an infection that causes inflammation (redness and swelling) of the ear canal, which is the tube between the outer ear and the eardrum. Otitis externa is often called swimmers ear because regularly getting water in your ear can make inflammation more likely. Symptoms of otitis externa Symptoms of otitis externa include: ear pain itching and irritation in and around your ear canal redness and swelling of your outer ear and ear canal a feeling of pressure and fullness inside your ear scaly skin in and around your ear canal, which may peel off discharge from your ear, which can be either thin and watery or thick and pus-like tenderness when you move your ear or jaw swollen and sore glands in your throat some hearing loss Usually, only one ear is affected. With treatment, these symptoms should clear up within a few days. Some cases can persist for several months or longer. When to get medical advice Pharmacists can give advice and treatment about outer ear infections. Find your local pharmacy Your pharmacist may advise you to speak to your GP practice if needed. Diagnosing otitis externa Your pharmacist or GP will ask about your symptoms and whether you regularly put things into your ears, such as hearing aids or ear plugs. They may also examine inside your ear using an instrument called an otoscope. If you have otitis externa often, and treatment doesnt help, your GP may take a swab of the inside of your ear. This will be tested to help check what type of infection you have, if any, so the right medication can be prescribed. What causes otitis externa? Most cases of otitis externa are caused by a bacterial infection. It can also be caused by: irritation fungal infections allergies There are a things that can make you more likely to develop otitis externa, including: damaging the skin inside your ear  for example by scratching or picking your ear regularly getting water in your ear  for example by swimming Getting water in your ear can cause you to scratch inside your ear, and the moisture also provides an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Who is affected? Otitis externa is quite common. Its estimated that around 1 in 10 people will be affected by it at some point in their lives. The condition is slightly more common in women than men and is most often diagnosed in adults 45 to 75 years of age. People with certain long-term (chronic) conditions are at greater risk of developing the condition. These include: eczema dermatitis Treatment for otitis externa Otitis externa sometimes gets better without treatment, but it can take several weeks. Things you can do to help your symptoms To help your symptoms and help prevent complications, you should: avoid getting your affected ear wet  wearing a shower cap while showering and bathing if you arent washing your hair can help avoid swimming until the condition has fully cleared remove any discharge by gently swabbing your outer ear with cotton wool  do not stick cotton wool or a cotton bud inside your ear remove anything from your affected ear that may cause an allergic reaction, such as hearing aids, ear plugs and earrings use pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve ear pain  these arent suitable for everyone, so make sure you check the information leaflet that comes with the medication first and if youre still unsure, check with your GP, practice nurse or pharmacist if your condition is caused by a boil in your ear, placing a warm flannel or cloth over the affected ear can help it heal faster Ear drops Your pharmacist or GP can prescribe ear drops that usually improve symptoms within a few days. There are different types of ear drops that may be used to treat otitis externa. You usually use them several times a day for about a week. Your GP may refer you to a specialist for further treatment and advice if your symptoms are severe, or treatment does not help. How to prevent otitis externa There are things you can do to reduce your chances of developing otitis externa. Do consider wearing a swimming cap or using ear plugs if youre a regular swimmer  but make sure you insert ear plugs carefully and dont use them if they irritate your ears if earwax build-up is a problem, have it removed by a healthcare professional keep your ears dry and clean turn your head from side to side after getting out of water  this helps water drain from your ears Dont do not insert cotton wool buds or other things into your ears (including your fingers)  this can damage the sensitive skin in your ear canal do not swim in polluted water You should also try to avoid getting water, soap or shampoo into your ears when you have a shower or bath. Source: ENT Scotland - Opens in new browser window Last updated: 05 March 2024 How can we improve this page? Help us improve NHS inform Thank You Your feedback has been received Dont include personal information e.g. name, location or any personal health conditions. 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