Many individuals with otitis externa can be managed without any tests since a diagnosis can be given after examination of the ear. Ear drops can be used to deal with a short episode of otitis externa. Nevertheless, other treatments are added especially if the following are present:
- Ear are swollen or painful
- Ears are fully blocked
- Recurrent case or becomes persistent
Commonly used treatment choices for otitis externa
Ear drops or sprays
A short course of ear drops or sprays might be prescribed by the doctor. These usually include an antibiotic to deal with any infection and even a steroid to minimize the itchiness and inflammation. In most cases, it might take a week or more for the symptoms to fully settle.
In case otitis externa was brought about by an inflammatory skin condition, the ear might be itchy but not painful. Ear drops that contain steroids is usually given. Nevertheless, if the ear is tender or swollen, the doctor might prescribe drops that contain antibiotics.
Pain medications
Otitis externa can cause discomfort especially if the outside part of the earlobe close to the ear canal is touched. Pain medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be given to reduce the pain. The stronger variants are occasionally required. In addition, holding a warm cloth against the ear can also alleviate the pain.
Ear wick
Oftentimes, especially in cases where the ear canal is swollen and blocked, treatment using a wick is needed. This is simply a piece of gauze that is soaked in treatment drops and gently driven into the ear canal between the swollen walls.
This ensures that the treatment is held in contact with the sore skin if possible. Take note that the wick is typically changed every 2-3 days until it has settled.
Cleaning of the ear canal
The doctor might decide to clear away any drainage and debris from the ear canal. This will allow better penetration of the treatment into the lining of the ear canal. It is important to note that the ear canal is cleaned by gently swabbing, suction or syringing. The cleaning might be repeated after a few days.
Oral antibiotics
In case the infection is severe or involves the skin around the ear, oral antibiotics are given aside from the ear drops.