Otitis Externa: Inflammation of the Ear Canal
Otitis externa involves inflammation of the skin in the external auditory canal, the passage just outside the eardrum. The ear consists of three regions: the outer ear (auricle and external auditory canal), middle ear, and inner ear. The external auditory canal, a 2.5- to 3.5-centimeter S-shaped passage, contains cerumen (earwax), sebaceous glands, and sweat glands that offer antibacterial protection, guarding against bacteria and foreign debris.
When the canal’s skin is injured or irritated, its protective barriers weaken, triggering inflammation. “Pain, itching, discharge, or a sensation of fullness are classic signs of otitis externa,” said Dr. Young-Ho Kim, an otolaryngologist at Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center. “Severe cases may lead to pus accumulation or eardrum damage, so vigilance is essential.”
Why Otitis Externa Surges in Summer
Summer’s warm, humid conditions foster bacterial and fungal growth in the ear canal. Water trapped in the ear after swimming keeps the canal moist, encouraging rapid bacterial proliferation. Habits such as frequent ear touching or excessive cotton swab use further elevate inflammation risks.
Pool disinfectants, seawater’s salt, and impurities can irritate or harm the ear canal’s delicate skin, increasing infection susceptibility. Individuals with sensitive skin or compromised immunity may develop acute otitis externa after a single swim. The condition affects about 1-3% of people yearly, with higher rates in infants and young children due to their narrower canals and softer skin.
Risks of ‘Ear Disinfection’
Attempting to “disinfect” the ear with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide is hazardous. These harsh agents dry the ear canal’s skin, disrupt its natural protective layer, and heighten infection risk. The canal’s skin, akin to leather, depends on balanced natural oils and moisture. Irritants like alcohol can cause cracking or micro-abrasions, creating entryways for bacteria.
“Hydrogen peroxide’s fizzing may appear to clear earwax, but it strips the skin’s protective layer, causing irritation,” Dr. Kim noted. “Using these disinfectants to prevent or treat otitis externa often aggravates the problem.”
Safeguarding Your Ears Post-Swim
Persistent itching or symptoms lasting beyond a few days call for a healthcare provider’s evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Scratching the ear vigorously can damage the skin and worsen infections, so it should be avoided.
Complications of Untreated Otitis Externa
While acute otitis externa typically resolves with timely treatment, neglecting it can lead to chronic inflammation. In rare instances, it may progress to complications like eardrum perforation or otitis media, a middle ear infection causing pain, fever, and hearing loss.
Children, who may not clearly express symptoms, need close monitoring. Frequent ear touching or unusual irritability may indicate a problem, especially in young children.
“The ear is for protecting, not disinfecting,” Dr. Kim advised. “After swimming, let water drain naturally and steer clear of harsh disinfectants or excessive ear cleaning.”
Safe Ear Drying Techniques
If water remains in your ear, tilt your head to let it drain naturally, gently tugging the earlobe to assist. A hairdryer on a cool or low setting, held 20-30 centimeters away, can safely dry the ear. If itching or pain persists, consult a medical professional rather than relying on home remedies.
Haeun Oh, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
