About Otitis externa
Otitis externa is inflammation or infection of the ear canal, often called swimmer’s ear. Ear pain, itch, tenderness when the outer ear is moved and drainage can occur, particularly after moisture or irritation.
Symptoms can overlap between conditions. How they change, relevant health history, medications and risk factors are therefore as important as the condition name during an assessment.
Symptoms and details worth noting
Before a consultation, note the details that best describe the concern. They help the healthcare professional understand the problem and how urgent it may be.
- Pain, pressure, drainage, itch or reduced hearing
- Which ear is affected and how long symptoms have lasted
- Recent swimming, earbuds, trauma, cold or allergy symptoms
- Fever, dizziness or swelling around the ear
Possible causes and context
These factors can guide an assessment, but they cannot confirm a diagnosis on their own.
- Moisture or irritation in the ear canal
- A recent respiratory infection or congestion
- Skin conditions affecting the canal
- Trauma or a possible foreign object
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How a virtual consultation may help
The healthcare professional first checks symptoms, risk factors and warning signs. Based on the assessment, they may discuss appropriate options or recommend in-person care.
- Review symptoms and relevant exposures
- Assess visible outer-ear changes by photo when useful
- Discuss safe symptom management
- Determine whether an otoscope examination is required
Signs that need prompt attention
Seek urgent care for swelling or redness behind the ear, sudden major hearing loss, severe dizziness, facial weakness, serious head injury or a foreign object that cannot be removed safely.