Swimmer's ear
Otitis externa can cause a number of different symptoms affecting the ear and the surrounding area.
Symptoms can include:
Otitis externa sometimesoccurs ifa hair follicle inside the ear becomes infected by bacteria and develops into a spot (pimple) or boil .
If this happens, you may be able to see thepimple or boil in a mirror. However, don't attempt to squeezeany pimples or boils in your ear, asthis could lead to the infection spreading elsewhere.
In some cases,the symptoms of otitis externa can persist for several months, or sometimes years. This is known as chronic otitis externa.
Symptomsofchronic otitis externa can include:
Otitis externa is a condition that causes inflammation (redness and swelling) of the external ear canal, which is the tube between the outer ear and eardrum.
Otitis externa can cause a number of different symptoms affecting the ear and the surrounding area.
There are several different causes of otitis externa, such as a bacterial infection, a middle ear infection or an allergic reaction.
Otitis externa can usually be treated effectively with ear drops prescribed by your GP and some simple self-care techniques.
Although complications associated with otitis externa are uncommon, there's a small risk of further problems developing.
It's not always possible to prevent otitis externa, but you can reduce your risk of developing the condition.