YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH: EXTERNAL EAR INFECTION (OTITIS EXTERNA)
Otitis externa is an infection of the lining of the ear canal, on the outer side of the ear drum.
Cause
Otitis externa, also known as swimmer’s ear, is caused by an inflammation of the skin lining the ear canal. It is more common in children who swim a lot, because water remaining in the ear afterwards can be an irritant. Commonly, a secondary bacterial or fungal infection develops.
Clinical features
If your child has otitis externa, he may complain of a painful or itchy ear. Sometimes a discharge will be present. The ear usually feels blocked and your child may have difficulty in hearing.
Treatment
If your child has a mild case of otitis externa, your doctor may simply prescribe ear drops which usually have a combination of steroids and antibiotic in them. These should be used for a week and then the ear should be examined again. If your child has a more severe otitis externa, your doctor may insert a small length of gauze, called a wick, which is soaked in a solution of antibiotic and steroid. Do not touch the ear and make sure it is kept dry at all times. Do not allow your child to go swimming until the ear is completely healed.
• if your child complains of an earache;
• if there is discharge from the ear;
• if your child is generally unwell, has a fever or is vomiting;
• if otitis externa becomes a recurrent problem.
Prevention
If your child suffers from recurrent otitis externa, it may be helpful to put drops in the ear after swimming and bathing. Your doctor will be able to advise you about these.
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