An ear canal infection, or otitis externa, is caused by bacteria or fungi multiplying in the outer part of the ear due to excessive moisture. Symptoms include pain, itching, discharge, and temporary hearing loss. Anti-inflammatory medications can help, and prevention measures include wearing ear plugs while swimming and avoiding foreign object insertion.
An ear canal infection, also called otitis externa, is an infection that occurs in the outer part of the ear, as opposed to otitis media, which occurs in the inner ear. An ear canal infection involves inflammation and swelling of the skin of the ear canal, usually due to damage or bacteria or fungi that multiply in excessively humid conditions and cause infection. The most common and most significant symptom of an ear canal infection is pain, which can be quite severe.
The ear canal is the small tube that connects the ear to the eardrum. When water or debris such as dirt or sand enters the ear canal, bacteria or fungi may settle and multiply, leading to infection and inflammation. It is commonly referred to as “swimmer’s ear” due to the increased risk of developing an ear canal infection with repeated exposure to water.
Taking anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen might help reduce inflammation and pain. Acetaminophen might also reduce pain associated with an ear canal infection. The pain can get worse when the ear is gently tugged or when the jaw moves.
The ear may feel uncomfortably full or blocked when an ear canal infection is present. This is due to inflammation of the ear canal. You should not attempt to unclog the ear with a Q-tip, fingertip, or other object, as this will cause further irritation to the ear canal and could make the infection and associated pain worse.
Often, the first symptom of the infection is an itchy ear. The ear may also feel warmer than normal to the touch, and discharge may be present. An ear canal infection might also be accompanied by a low temperature or fever. Hearing may be temporarily impaired due to inflammation of the ear canal.
To minimize the risk of getting an ear canal infection, a swimming cap worn over the ears or ear plugs should be worn while swimming, especially if the ears are submerged. Avoid getting water or shampoo in your ears while bathing. If water enters the ear, the head should be tilted so that the water can flow out of the ear. Foreign objects such as cotton buds should never be inserted into the ears, as this can cause damage to the ear canal, leading to pain and infection. Foreign body insertion can also damage the eardrum and should be avoided.
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