Swimmer’s ear

Outer ear infections (otitis externa) is an infection or inflammation caused by scratches caused by objects or water entering the ear canal. This disease generally affects children, especially those who like to swim. Therefore this disease is also called swimmer's ear.

The ear is the sense of hearing that its structure is divided into three areas, namely the outer ear, middle, and deep. Outside of the ear skin as our skin and the area covering the ear canal to the eardrum.

Area middle ear includes the eardrum to the cochlea almost get into. While the inner ear includes the cochlea to the inside. Infection can occur in the third place, but most often is the outer ear.

When water gets into the ear canal and trapped by a layer of wax (wax) which is naturally present in the lining of the middle ear, the skin will be moist and wet. This condition causes the fungi and bacteria thrive and can enter tissue in the ear canal and cause infection.

In addition to its take in water, the disease is also common because of the habit of insert objects into the ear, including cotton-stemmed (cotton buds). Cotton stemmed precisely push dirt into the ear and eardrum hurt. It was also able to scratch the ear canal.

The bacteria that most commonly causes inflammation of the ear is staphylococcus and pseudomonas. Those who suffer from diabetes are more susceptible to this infection.

Outer ear inflammatory disease could be identified from the following symptoms:

• Itching and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Ear canal look red and swollen, so painful to the touch.
• Sometimes also out of fluid.
• The hallmark of this disease is a pain when you chew or squeeze the outer ear.
• Temporary hearing loss.
• Inflammation of the outer ear infections are basically harmless and can heal itself within a few days. How quickly the recovery depends on the type and severity of infection and the factors causing the infection.

Even so immediately went to the doctor if the pain or pain in the ear persists for more than three days. Beware also of infection accompanied by fever in children.

Treatment is usually with oral antibiotics, can also contain an antibiotic ear drops to get rid of bacteria. If the cause is fungal, given antifungals. Often doctors also prescribe respiratory lozenges, antihistamines, or pain relievers as needed.

Patients are advised to rest to improve the condition of the body, drink plenty of water, six to eight glasses per day-especially if there is fever. Ears should be kept dry.