Otitis Externa

Overview

Otitis externa, also called swimmer's ear, is inflammation of the external ear canal or auricle. Common symptoms include ear pain, swelling of the ear canal, and occasionally reduced hearing. Acute cases are usually caused by bacterial infection, while chronic cases often stem from allergy or autoimmune disease.

Symptoms

• Ear pain
• Itching of the ear canal
• Discharge from the ear canal
• Reduced hearing

Treatment

Keep the ear canal clean and dry, apply topical antibiotic ear drops, and use oral antibiotics when pain is significant or infection is severe.

Dietary advice

Eat a light diet, avoid spicy foods and seafood, and eat plenty of vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits.