Otitis externa, commonly referred to as swimmer's ear, is an inflammation of the ear canal, a small tube running from the outer ear to the middle ear where the eardrum is located. Typically, only one ear is affected by otitis externa at a time; the condition presents with itching, swelling, and ear pain.

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An ear infection, or otitis media, very often accompanies a common cold, or flu. An ear infection occurs when the Eustachian tubes are swollen or blocked, and the middle ear can not drain, or equalize. Infection may be viral or bacterial, and be very painful, causing earache, and thick, yellow fluid may drain from the ear. An otoscope is used to examine the ear. A doctor will examine the ear drum, and check for perforations, a bulging eardrum, or a collapsed eardrum, as well as examine the fluid trapped in the middle ear.

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A sample may be tested to determine what antibiotic to prescribe. In extreme cases, a CT scan may be needed. Ear infections can be mild or acute. An ear infection mat is treated with over the counter decongestants, pain medication and ear drops, however, antibiotics may be required. Ear infections may develop from respiratory infections as germs can migrate from the nasal, and sinus cavities and enter the middle ear, via the Eustachian tubes. Ear infections are very common in young children.

Conditions

"Condition" is a general term for particular abnormal diseases that negatively affect a part or all of the body. Conditions are not due to any external injury. Therefore, a broken bone does not classify as a condition, whereas Herpes, OCD, Shingles, and Ulcers do.

Medical conditions are classified by specific symptoms and signs. While each person's experiences can vary, there are consistent signs and symptoms that doctors will look for when diagnosing their patients. We always recommend that people seek a professional diagnosis. Afterward, supplement medical advice and opinion with accurate and easy to read information.

Most people only spend an average of a couple minutes with their doctor during a checkup. Oftentimes patients don't receive the fullest explanation of their diagnosis. Easily search through the vast amount of articles that Facty Health offers for ones that address your specific needs. From there, allow us to help you with those unanswered questions.

Ear Infection

Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments of Otitis Externa

8. Treatment: Cleaning the Ear Canal

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