Infection can be caused in any part of the ear like otitis externa (ear canal), middle of the ear (otitis media) and the eardrum. There are many reasons for getting ear canal infection by is predominantly caused due to pressure changes or direct injury. Ear canal infection needs to be treated with prompt medical care. Swimmer’s ear is a condition of infection which is caused when water enters the eardrum aiding bacterial growth. Some people develop infection on the ear while using cotton swabs and putting their fingers into the ear that would damage the thin lining of the skin inside.
Symptoms :
There may be itching in the ear canal when the infection begins. You can see change in color inside the ear which turns slightly reddish. It may be accompanied with discomfort feeling followed by oozing out of pus or fluid. As the infection progresses to moderate level, there may be more of itching with pain than before. The fluid discharge may increase depending on the severity of infection and there will be extensive color change inside your ear. For some people, there may be decreased hearing ability due to blockage in the ear canal or due to the accumulation of fluid inside.
If left untreated, the infection passes on to advanced stage giving severe pain radiating in your neck and even entire face. Inflammation is seen on the lymph nodes of your neck and you may have fever. There may be fullness in ear, nausea, vomiting and ringing sensation.
Causes :
Bacteria are the main cause for ear canal infection. Sometimes, fungus or virus can also be causative factor. Whenever ear infection begins, it will trigger natural defense mechanism for cleaning the ears and preventing infection. Your body will start secreting cerumen, a waxy substance for destroying bacteria. It produces the waxy clump which will get collected at the opening of the ear canal. The ear canal slopes down gently from the middle of the ear to outside facilitating easy drainage.
If there is excess of moisture inside your ear, it can cause infection and bacterial growth. It can happen due to heavy sweating, exposure to humid weather or staying in water for long. Similarly, any scratches or sudden abrasions can cause ear canal infection. This can happen when you put your fingers inside your ears or insert hairpin or any sharp objects for cleaning. In rare case, allergic reaction is caused due to jewelry or hair products.
Pictures of Ear Canal Infection :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Ear Canal Infection
Treatment :
In case the pain or itch is severe, you can take Tylenol or Ibuprofen for getting relief from pain. You need to consult ear specialist for getting relevant ear drops like neomycin or hydrocortisone. You need to take it as prescribed by your physician for getting total relief. He may also give you oral antibiotics for reducing the drainage from the ear canal. Over the counter medicines like pseudoephedrine can be taken for mild ear pain which will ease out ear pressure.
If needed, your doctor will use suction pump for draining away the fluids inside to facilitate complete cure.