EAR DISCHARGE
Swimmers are prone to ear canal infections & that’s the reason Otitis Externa is also called swimmers ear.
Ear discharge may be due to infection in the outer ear (Ear canal) or the middle ear. Outer ear infections (called Otitis Externa) may be bacterial or Fungal. Otitis externa is triggered by frequent cleaning of the ears using ear buds or anything which comes in handy. Swimmers are prone to ear canal infections & that’s the reason Otitis Externa is also called swimmers ear.
Otitis externa is treated in the outpatient setting. This includes cleaning of the ears with micro suction, application of medication inside the ear canals. A bacterial infection is treated with antibiotics (oral) along with ear drops. Fungal infections in the ear canal (called Otomycosis) are treated with Antifungal ear drops after the cleaning process
The discharge may also be due to Middle ear infection (the compartment behind the Ear drum). This is called Otitis Media. Acute Otitis Media (one of recent onset) follows a severe attack of cold. Acute Otitis Media is treated with Decongestants (for the cold) & pain killers. Antibiotics are given when a bacterial infection is suspected.
