2 Otitis Externa

1. Inflammation of the outer passage of the ear/EAM, associated with infection,

2. Bacterial or fungal infection,

3. excessive moisture,

4. skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis),

5. trauma from cleaning

Otitis Externa Cause 5

1. Itch/irritation and pain?

2. Discharge?

3. No systemic symptoms of cold/fever

4. Been swimming recently

Otitis Externa history taking questions 4

1. Inflammation ( red/swollen) of the pinna ( external outside cartilage part of ear)

2. impaired hearing in children not associated with ear wax 

3. Development of glue ear? 

4. Mucopurulent discharge 

5. Systemically unwell Otitis media? 

6. Slow-growing growths on the pinna in elderly people

Otitis Externa Red flags/Referral symptoms to ask 6

Otitis externa, commonly known as "swimmer's ear," is an infection or inflammation of the external ear canal—the tube that runs from the outer ear to the eardrum.

Causes

• Bacterial infection (most common)

• Fungal infection (less common)

• Moisture in the ear (from swimming, bathing)

• Skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis)

• Trauma to the ear canal (e.g., from using cotton swabs)

Typical Symptoms

• Ear pain (especially when touching or pulling the ear)

• Itching in the ear canal

• Redness and swelling of the outer ear and ear canal

• Discharge from the ear (clear, yellow, or pus-like)

• Hearing loss or muffled hearing

• Fullness or pressure in the ear

• In severe cases: fever or swollen lymph nodes

1. Acetic acid 2% ear drops, 

2. Anagesics: paracetamol and ibuprofen

Otitis Externa medications to treat 2