Acute Otitis Externa | Understanding the Condition

Acute Otitis Externa is a sudden inflammation of the outer ear canal, often caused by water exposure or bacterial infection. Prompt treatment is crucial.
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Application
Ear Inflammation | Outer Ear Infections | Ear Canal Health | Outer Ear Inflammation | Ear Canal Condition | Ear Infection
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Acute Otitis Externa FAQ


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What is acute otitis externa (AOE)?

In contrast to the chronic otitis externa, acute otitis externa (AOE) is predominantly a bacterial infection, occurs suddenly, rapidly worsens, and becomes painful. The ear canal has an abundant nerve supply, so the pain is often severe enough to interfere with sleep.

What is otitis externa?

Otitis externa (OE) is an inflammation, that can be either infectious or non-infectious, of the external auditory canal. In some cases, inflammation can extend to the outer ear, such as the pinna or tragus. OE can be classified as acute, lasting less than 6 weeks, or chronic which lasts more than 3 months.

What are the symptoms of otitis externa?

A mild case of otitis externa. A severe case of acute otitis externa. Note the narrowing of the ear channel, the large amounts of exudate, and swelling of the outer ear. Tenderness of pinna is the predominant complaint and the only symptom directly related to the severity of acute external otitis.

What does otitis externa look like?

Otitis externa, also known as Swimmer’s ear, is an inflammation of the outer ear. The skin which lines the outer ear canal becomes red and swollen due to infection by bacteria (a germ or bug) or fungus. This infection is very common and affects all age groups. Itchiness. Foul smelling yellow or green pus in the ear canal.

Acute Otitis Externa References

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