Ear Canal Inflammation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Ear canal inflammation, also known as otitis externa, is a condition characterized by swelling and irritation of the ear canal.

Ear Canal Inflammation FAQ

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What is ear canal infection?

Ear canal infection is an infection of your ear canal (the tube that connects the outside of your ear to your eardrum). It differs from a middle ear infection ( otitis media ), which is an infection behind your ear drum. An ear canal infection is especially common after swimming, which is why it’s often called “swimmer’s ear.”

What does a swollen ear canal mean?

In severe cases, it may be swollen completely closed. If the ear canal swells or fills with pus and debris, hearing is impaired. Usually, the canal is tender and hurts if the external ear (pinna) is pulled or tugged, or if pressure is placed on the fold of skin and cartilage in front of the ear canal (tragus).

What is the ear canal?

The ear canal is a small, tube-like pathway that extends from the outer ear to the eardrum. A range of health problems can affect this sensitive area, including infection, inflammation, and injury.

What are the symptoms of ear canal infection?

Ear canal infection is caused by bacteria or, less commonly, fungi. Typical symptoms are pain and discharge. A doctor looks in the ear with an otoscope for redness, swelling, and pus. Debris removal, antibiotic ear drops, keeping water and cotton swabs out of the ear, and pain relievers are the most common forms of treatment.