What is the External Ear Canal?

The external ear canal is a narrow and slightly curved channel that extends from the outer part of the ear, the auricle, to the eardrum. This channel works like a tube, directing sound waves to the eardrum. Additionally, the external ear canal is lined with glands that produce earwax (cerumen). This natural earwax keeps the external ear canal moist and provides protection against harmful substances like dust and bacteria.

What are External Ear Canal Infections?

External ear canal infections occur when this delicate channel becomes infected due to microorganisms like bacteria or fungi. The medical term for this condition is “otitis externa,” and it results from an increase in moisture or irritation in the external ear canal, which allows bacteria to proliferate. Symptoms of external ear canal infection include pain, swelling in the ear canal, and sometimes discharge.

External Ear Canal Infections Can Be Classified Based on Their Causes:

1-Bacterial Infections:

These are the most common external ear canal infections. Bacteria can multiply and cause infection, especially when water gets trapped in the ear after swimming or showering.

Severe pain is experienced, and the pain increases when pressure is applied to the ear.

The ear canal becomes red and swollen, and sometimes narrows so much that ear drops cannot even reach.

2-Fungal Infections (Otomycosis):

Less common but can occur in moist environments or after frequent antibiotic use.

Itchiness is the main symptom, and pain is usually milder.

Fungal infections are more common if there is eczema in the external ear canal.

A white or black discharge may be noticeable.

3-Necrotizing External Otitis:

This serious infection is usually seen in diabetic patients, and it occurs when an infection in the external ear canal progresses to deeper bone tissues.

This is a severe condition that requires urgent treatment.

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of external ear canal infection can include:

• Ear pain (ranging from mild to severe).
• Itching in the ear.
• Clear, yellow, or white discharge from the ear.
• Redness and swelling in the external ear canal.
• Increased sensitivity when touching the ear.

What Causes External Ear Canal Infections?

The main causes of external ear canal infections include:

• Frequent exposure to water: Water left in the ear after swimming or showering creates an environment that fosters infections.
• Irritation or injury: Trying to clean the ear with cotton swabs or hard objects can cause irritation and lead to infection.
• Excess moisture: Moisture accumulation in the ear facilitates the growth of microorganisms.
• Previous infections: Infections that haven’t fully healed can lead to new inflammation.

How Can External Ear Canal Infections Be Prevented?

• Keep the ears dry: Gently dry your ears after swimming or showering.
• Use earplugs: Use earplugs during swimming to prevent water from entering the ear.
• Be cautious when cleaning your ears: Avoid using cotton swabs or hard objects in your ears.
• Use moisture-preventing drops: Alcohol-based ear drops can be used with a doctor’s recommendation.

How Are External Ear Canal Infections Treated?

Treatment varies based on the cause of the infection:

• Bacterial Infections:

Antibiotic and corticosteroid ear drops are typically the first choice for treatment.

If the ear canal is narrowed, medicated cotton swabs may be placed to help open the canal.

In severe cases, oral antibiotics (such as quinolone) may be needed. In children, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid or cephalosporins are used instead of quinolones.

• Fungal Infections:

Antifungal drops are effective for treating fungal infections.

The ear canal may need to be cleaned regularly by a doctor.

• Severe Pain:

Pain-relieving medications can be used to alleviate symptoms.