External ear infection involves the ear canal. In most cases of external ear infection, bacteria are accountable while a small percentage is caused by fungal infections. External ear infection usually occurs once there is excess moisture in the ear. Due to this, it is called as swimmer’s ear. An external ear infection and its accompanying symptoms can range from mild to severe. If you want to learn more about the management of infections, click here.
If you suspect that an individual is developing an external ear infection, you have to watch out for the following symptoms. It is best to consult a doctor as soon as possible so that appropriate treatment can be started early.
Itchiness of the ear canal
The itchiness in the ear canal is often an early indication of an external ear infection. Once the infection progresses, the itchiness can persist but the pain can become a distinguishing symptom.
Redness of the exterior ear
An external ear infection often causes redness of the exterior ear structure or auricle and can be warm to the touch. It is important to note that both the ear canal and the auricle can become inflamed. After a few days, the skin of the auricle will start to flake and peel.
Ear pain
External ear infection can trigger an exceptional level of pain. Pressing on or pulling on the auricle is usually painful. The ear pain is common but it can also radiate to the face, side of the head or neck.
Drainage of pus or fluid from the ear
In most cases, fluid typically leaks from the ear canal if an individual has an external ear infection. Initially, the fluid is primarily translucent. As the infection is left to progress, the drainage will change to a cloudy, yellowish-fluid that frequently has an unpleasant odor. The drainage is a combination of pus and bacteria. The common causes of external ear infection include staphylococcus aureus, pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and proteus vulgaris.
Swollen lymph nodes
External ear infection can cause swelling of the lymph nodes behind the ear. The ear can appear elevated from the surface of the head or pushed forward due to the swelling.
Hearing loss
The swelling of the ear canal and the presence of pus will block the normal transmission of sound to the middle ear. It is important to note that sounds seem muffled and the hearing sensitivity is temporarily diminished in the affected ear. Once the infection reduces, the hearing returns to the previous level of acuity.
Fever
Fever is not considered as a usual symptom of external ear infection. In case fever develops, it is a warning indication that the infection might have invaded bone and tissues around the ear canal. The condition is called as malignant otitis externa. Take note that this condition most commonly occurs among the elderly who have diabetes or those who have a weakened immune system.