Otitis Externa (cont.)
Why do ears itch?
Itchy ears can drive a person crazy. It can be the first sign of an infection, but if the problem is chronic, it is more likely caused by a chronic dermatitis of the ear canal. Seborrheic dermatitis and eczema can both affect the ear canal. There is really no cure for this problem, but it can be made tolerable with the use of steroid drops and creams. People with these problems are more prone to acute infections as well. Use of ear plugs, alcohol drops, and non-instrumentation of the ear is the best prevention for infection. Other treatments for allergies may also help itchy ears.
What should I do if I get a foreign object or insect in my ear?
Foreign objects are frequently placed in the ear by
young children or occur accidentally while trying to clean
or scratch the ear. Frequently there is an accompanying
external ear infection. Removal of any object from the ear
can be very difficult, and should only be attempted by a
physician skilled in the techniques of safe removal.
Usually this can be done in the office, but sometimes
general anesthesia must be used in cases where the object
is lodged too deeply in the ear or if the patient is
uncooperative. It is important to remember that the most
common reason an ear is injured from a foreign object is
because of inadvertent damage occurring during removal of
the object.
Insects or bugs may also become trapped in the ear.
Small gnats may become caught in the
ear wax and cannot fly
out. They can often be washed out with warm water. Larger
insects or bugs may not be able to turn around in the
narrow canal. If the insect or bug is still alive, first
kill it by filling the ear with mineral oil. This will
suffocate the insect, then see your doctor to have it
removed. For more, please read the Objects or Insects in Ear article.
- Swimmer's Ear, or external otitis, is an infection of
the outer ear canal skin and can occur in acute and chronic
forms.
- Excessive water exposure and frequent instrumentation
(usually cotton swabs) of the ear canal are important causative
factors.
- Itchy ears, a feeling of fullness, swelling, drainage,
and pain are early symptoms.
- Antibiotic ear drops and avoidance of water are
frequently necessary for treatment.
- Proper ear care can avoid most infections.
Last Editorial Review: 6/6/2007
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