Discharge of pus from the ear. Temporary loss of hearing on the affected side. Injury to the ear canal. Excessive swimming in chlorinated pools.
Chlorinated water dries out the ear canal, allowing bacteria or fungi to enter the skin.
Excess moisture from any cause. Previous ear infections. Diabetes mellitus or other disorders that predispose to infection. Use of hair spray or hair dye that may enter the ear canal. After you have had otitis externa, keep the prescription ear drops on hand.