MyMediktor - Otitis externa (Paediatrics)

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Skin inflammation of the external auditory canal, also known as "swimmer's ear".

The cause is of infectious origin, either produced by bacteria or by fungi.

It generally manifests with ear space inflammation, ear pain (otalgia), deafness, discharge and fever.

Diagnosis is made by reviewing the patient's medical history and a physical and ear examination with an otoscope.

The main goals of treatment are to control pain (analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs), cure the infection (topical antibiotics) and prevent recurrence (use of alcohol drops after swimming).

Bibliographic references

David Greenes, MD. Evaluation of earache in children. UpToDate. Julio 2016
Laura A Goguen. External otitis: Pathogenesis, clinical features, and diagnosis. UpToDate. Septiembre 2014
Stone KE. Otitis externa. Pediatr Rev 2007; 28:77.
Beers SL. Otitis externa review. Pediatr Emerg Care 2004; 20:250.
Michael A. Rubin. Faringitis, otalgia y síntomas de la porción superior de las vías respiratorias. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 44

Author

Dr. Patricia Sánchez

Copyright

Symptoms

Pain when the inner part of the ear is pressed

Pain gets worse when ear is moved

Ear pain

Itchy ear

Discharge of fluid from the ear

Symptoms to watch out for

Reddening of the ear

High fever (39 ºC or more)

Self-care

Maintain a balanced diet: increase fruit, vegetable, and white meat consumption and reduce the intake of fatty meals and fritters.

Maintain the ears dry.

Increase ear hygiene.

Avoid using cotton swabs.

Check with your general practitioner about the prescription for antifungals and/or antibiotics.