Otitis externa is an inflammation or infection of the ear canal (the passage leading from the external ear to the eardrum) that may develop when water, sand, dirt, or other debris gets into the ear canal.
Symptoms of otitis externa (also called swimmer's ear) are pain in and discharge from the ear.
Other causes of inflammation or infection of the ear canal include:
Treatment for otitis externa may include nonprescription pain relievers and antibiotic ear drops (with or without steroids).
Current as of: September 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
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