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Conditions > Outer Ear Infection

Outer Ear Infection

An outer ear infection, or otitis externa, is an inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal.

This type of infection is often referred to as “swimmer’s ear” because it commonly occurs when water remains trapped in the ear canal, creating a moist environment conducive to bacterial or fungal growth.

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People Commonly Affected By Outer Ear Infections

Outer ear infections can impact individuals of any age, but some groups are particularly at risk.

Young children are especially vulnerable due to the anatomy of their ear canals and their frequent exposure to moisture from activities like swimming. Swimmers are notably prone to these infections as well.

People with chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, or those with allergies that cause inflammation in the ear canal, are also more susceptible.

Additionally, excessive moisture from sweating or using earplugs, along with a history of ear infections, can further increase the risk.

Symptoms To Watch For In Young Children

Fluid In The Ear: You might notice fluid or pus draining from the ear.
Itching: The child might frequently itch their ear or show signs of irritation around the ear.
Fever: In some cases, especially if the infection is more severe, the child might develop a fever.
Redness And Swelling: The outer ear canal and sometimes the outer ear itself might appear red and swollen.
Discharge: There may be a discharge from the ear, which can be clear, yellow, or greenish. It might also have a foul odour.
Hearing Loss: The infection can cause temporary hearing loss due to the buildup of fluid and inflammation in the ear canal.
Irritability: The discomfort can make the child more irritable or fussy, particularly if they are very young and cannot communicate their feelings clearly.
Ear Pain: Ear pulling is a common behaviour in young children with an ear infection. They might tug or pull at their ear in response to the discomfort or pain.

Signs Of Otitis Externa In Adults

Odour: A foul-smelling discharge can sometimes be present.
Redness: The skin of the ear canal may appear red or inflamed.
Tenderness: The ear canal or surrounding area might be tender to touch.
Swelling: Swelling of the ear canal, which can sometimes cause hearing loss.
Itching: Persistent itching in the outer ear canal is a common early symptom.
Discharge: There may be a fluid discharge from the ear, which can be clear, yellow, or pus-like.
Pain: Pain or discomfort in the ear, which might worsen when touching or pulling on the earlobe.
Hearing Loss: A feeling of fullness in the ear or muffled hearing due to the swelling and discharge.

Ear Care Tips To Avoid Infections

Preventing outer ear infections requires careful attention to ear hygiene and avoiding behaviours that can lead to infection.

To keep your ears dry, minimise prolonged exposure to water and thoroughly dry your ears after swimming or bathing. If you swim frequently, using earplugs can help keep water out of your ears.

When cleaning your ears, gently use a washcloth on the outer ear but refrain from inserting anything into the ear canal to prevent damage and reduce the risk of infection.

Treatments For Persistent Infections

For persistent or severe outer ear infections, more advanced treatments may be necessary. In some cases, professional cleaning of the ear canal is required to remove debris and discharge.

If infections do not respond to topical treatments, oral antibiotics or antifungals might be prescribed. Chronic infections could also indicate an underlying condition such as eczema or diabetes, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation to address the root cause.

Health-Related Causes

Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can affect the ear canal, making it more prone to infections.
Infections: Bacterial infections (e.g., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus) and fungal infections (e.g., Aspergillus, Candida) can directly invade the ear canal.
Allergic Reactions: Allergies to substances like hair products, earplugs, or earrings can cause inflammation and irritation in the ear canal, making it more susceptible to infection.

External Influences On Ear Health

Excessive Earwax: A buildup of earwax can trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for bacteria or fungi.
Humidity And Warmth: Warm and humid environments can promote the growth of microorganisms in the ear canal, increasing the risk of infection.
Trauma Or Irritation: Inserting objects like cotton swabs or hearing aids into the ear can cause small injuries, which may become infected if bacteria enter through them.
Water Exposure: Prolonged exposure to water, such as swimming or showering, can lead to moisture buildup in the ear canal, creating an environment conducive to infection.

Statistics

of all children will have at least 1 ear infection

0 %

of All Doctors in the UK are GPs

0 %

per 10000 people in the UK

0 GPs

times on average, a person sees a GP a year

What to do next

Our team of specialists can help you get the best possible treatment for your outer ear infection. Come to see us if you are suffering from an existing infection, would like to discuss recurrent infections, or have any questions or concerns. Give us a call or use our online booking system to make an appointment today.

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How can I reduce the risk of getting Swimmer’s ear?

Carefully drying your ears after swimming and showering can reduce the risk of infection. Avoid inserting anything into your ears to dry them.

Is Swimmer’s ear dangerous?

Not if it is treated promptly. If left to develop, outer ear infections can lead to temporary hearing loss, damage to the bones in the ear, or systemic infection.

Can Swimmer’s ear symptoms become severe?

Yes. If left untreated, Swimmer’s ear can cause pain that radiates from the ear into the face, side of the head, or the neck. If the infection spreads, it can cause swollen lymph nodes or fever. But do not wait for severe symptoms to see a doctor. Make an appointment as soon as you experience mild symptoms.

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