Otitis

Otitis Externa (External Ear Infection)
– Otitis externa: inflammation of the external auditory canal, sometimes extending to the pinna or tragus
– Acute otitis externa: commonly caused by bacterial infection
– Chronic otitis externa: often associated with underlying skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis
– Malignant otitis externa: potentially life-threatening infection of the external auditory canal and skull, usually associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa
– Otomycosis: fungal form of otitis externa, more common in coastal regions

Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)
– Middle ear infection
– Common in babies younger than 6 months
– Involves fluid build-up behind the eardrum
– May require myringotomy and tube insertion
– Most common type of ear infection

Otitis Interna (Inner Ear Infection)
– Inner ear infection
– Involves inflammation of the sensory organs for balance and hearing
– Common symptom: vertigo
– Other symptoms in adults: pain, drainage from ear, problems with hearing
– Symptoms in children: excessive crying, touching at ears, drainage, fever

Treatment and Management
– Treatment can range from increasing fluids and over-the-counter medicine to manage symptoms
– Antibiotics may be prescribed by medical providers
– Surgical procedures like myringotomy and tube insertion may be necessary
– Management of underlying skin diseases in chronic otitis externa
– Prevention tips, such as avoiding exposure to irritants and keeping ears dry

References
– Dr. Koralla Raja Meghanadh, ‘Ear infections: types, causes, symptoms, and prevention tips’ (2023)
– Mayo Clinic, ‘Ear Infection (middle ear)’ (2021)
– MedlinePlus, ‘Otitis’ (2023)
– MedlinePlus, ‘Otitis media with effusion’ (2021)
– StatPearls, ‘Otitis Externa’ (2022)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ear_infections