Bacterial Infections Of External Ear
Overview of Bacterial Infections Of External Ear
Otitis externa is inflammation/infection of the ear canal and external ear. There are 2 types : Acute (less than 6 weeks) and chronic (more than three months). Otitis externa affects 1–3% of people a year; most of cases are acute. At some point in their lives, about 10% of people will be affected.
Signs and Symptoms of Bacterial Infections Of External Ear
Ear pain. It directly related to the severity of acute external otitis. It worsens when the outer ear is touched or pulled gently, Ear discharge, Itchiness, Swelling, Temporary conductive hearing loss, Redness, Additional trauma to injured skin
Common Causes of Bacterial Infections Of External Ear
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Staph. aureus
Risk Factors of Bacterial Infections Of External Ear
Inadvertent injury to the canal caused by cleaning with cotton swabs or other objects, Allergies, Psoriasis, Eczema, Seborrheic dermatitis, Decreased canal acidity (possibly due to the repeated presence of water), Irritants (eg, hair spray, hair dye)
Investigation Techniques for Bacterial Infections Of External Ear
Clinical diagnosis with thorough history, Examination of the ear using an otoscope, Swabs of the discharge can be sent for culture, Look for risk factors such as diabetes meliitus, High Resolution CT (HRCT) scan to investigate the extent of the disease
Treatment and Prevention of Bacterial Infections Of External Ear
Hydrogen peroxide, Suction device, Ear curette, Antibiotics to kill bacteria, Steroids to help with swelling, Antifungal medicines, Chemicals that restore a healthy balance to your ear canal, so it’s harder for germs to grow, Painkillers (acetaminophen/ibuprofen or naproxen)
