Otitis externa

Question 1

Otitis externa - symptoms (7)

Answer 1

Itching and irritation of the skin of the ear canal
General ear pain
Red and swollen ears
Discharge
Tenderness of jaw and lymph glands
Hearing loss
Fever

Question 2

Otitis externa - extra questions (5)

Answer 2

Are there other symptoms of infection
Is there pain behind the ear
Has there been any accidents involving the ear
Have you been in loud environments
Have you recently used ear products

Question 3

Otitis externa - explanation of diagnosis

Answer 3

Inflammation of the ear caused by an infection, very common and should resolve within 3 days

Question 4

Otitis externa - causes (3)

Answer 4

External irritant
Water/swimming (swimmer’s ear)
Eczema

Question 5

Otitis externa - first-line treatment

Answer 5

Paracetamol to manage pain
Earcalm Spray - antiseptic spray, one spray into the ear 3 times per day and after showering or swimming, continue for 2 days after symptoms disappear but no longer than 7 days

Question 6

Otitis externa - lifestyle (7)

Answer 6

NHS leaflet online
Remove anything that could cause irritation (earrings)
Remove discharge using cotton wool
Don’t use cotton buds to remove earwax
Keep the ear dry as much as possible
Avoid swimming or use ear plugs
Consider using hairdryer to dry ear canal

Question 7

Otitis externa - when to refer (5)

Answer 7

No improvement after 48 hours following treatment
Pain behind ear
Systemic infection signs
Impaired hearing in children
Severe pain