Otitis Externa aka Swimmer's Ear

What characterizes otitis externa?

a) Inflammation of the inner ear canal

b) Inflammation of the middle ear

c) Inflammation of the skin/outer ear

d) Inflammation of the tympanic membrane

c) Inflammation of the skin/outer ear

What are common causes of otitis externa?

a) Exposure to loud noises and earwax buildup

b) Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures and wind

c) Swimming, use of Q-tips, foreign bodies, and ear sprays

d) Allergic reactions to pollen and dust

c) Swimming, use of Q-tips, foreign bodies, and ear sprays

What is a concern regarding otitis externa?

a) Hearing loss

b) Inner ear infections

c) Skin irritation leading to potential infection

d) Chronic headaches

c) Skin irritation leading to potential infection

What are some symptoms of otitis externa?

a) Dizziness, ear fullness, and pressure

b) Severe pain in the tragus (outer ear), itching, swelling, redness, and drainage

c) Blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and eye pain

d) Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

b) Severe pain in the tragus (outer ear), itching, swelling, redness, and drainage

What interventions are recommended for otitis externa?

a) Application of cold compresses and massaging the ear canal

b) Removing dried cerumen and skin, analgesics, keeping the ear dry, and avoiding swimming or soaking in baths

c) Irrigating the ear with warm water, applying antibiotic ointment, and using cotton swabs to clean the ear canal

d) Taking oral antibiotics and antifungal medications

b) Removing dried cerumen and skin, analgesics, keeping the ear dry, and avoiding swimming or soaking in baths