OUTER EAR INFECTIONS

Condition and Symptoms

Otitis externa is a condition that causes inflammation (redness and swelling) of the external ear canal, which is the tube between the outer ear and eardrum.

Otitis externa is often referred to as "swimmer's ear" because repeated exposure to water can make the ear canal more vulnerable to inflammation.

Symptoms include:

• ear pain, which can be severe;

• itchiness in the ear canal;

• a discharge of liquid or pus from the ear;

• some degree of temporary hearing loss.

Treatment

These ear symptoms should clear up within a few days of treatment. 

A consultation with Mrs Bentley involves a thorough examination and confirmation of the diagnosis, often micro-suctioning of the ear canal is needed to remove the ear debris and discharge. Antibiotic treatment, usually as drops, might need prescribing and a clear treatment schedule will be commenced. Hearing tests can be performed where needed.