What is otitis externa? 

Otitis externa is a common ear infection, causing a redness and swelling in the outer ear canal. This infection is estimated to affect around 1 in 10 people – during some point in their lives. However, adult women between the ages of 45 to 75, are most likely to be diagnosed with this common ear infection. 

What causes otitis externa? 

There are many factors as to what can bring about otitis externa, however the ultimate cause is a nasty bacterial infection. A few other causes of otitis externa, include: 

• Irritation  
• Fungal infections  
• Allergies  
• Damage to the skin inside your ear 
• Getting water in your ear on a regular basis (this can lead to an ear scratch and create a hospitable environment for bacteria to grow) 

What are the symptoms of an ear infection? 

Otitis externa is an unpleasant infection to experience, due to the multiple symptoms that can be caused. Some of these symptoms include: 

• Ear pain  
• Itchiness and irritation around and inside your ear canal  
• Redness and swelling of the outer ear and ear canal 
• Pressure and fullness in the ear  
• Scaly skin in and around your ear (this can often peel off)  
• Discharge from you ear (this can be thin, watery, thick, or pus-like) 
• A tender feeling when you move your ear or jaw 
• Swollen and sore glands  
• Some hearing loss 

What treatments are available? 

Typically, it takes up to several weeks for otitis externa to heal without any form of treatment. Therefore, most people who need or are looking for quick relief, can access medication via a pharmacist, such as: 

• Antibiotic ear drops (this is used to treat any underlying bacterial infections in the ear)  
• Corticosteroid ear drops (this is to reduce swelling)  
• Antifungal ear drops (this is used to treat any underlying fungal infections in the ear)  
• Acidic ear drops (this is to aid in killing the bacteria) 

Additionally, other treatments are available too, such as prescribed painkillers, antibiotic tablets, and more. 

How can a pharmacist help? 

At Allied Pharmacies, our pharmacists can be a first point of contact (rather than a GP) when symptoms of an ear infection arise. This private and paid for service provides you with readily available pharmacists to help and treat your otitis externa, without the need of booking an appointment and enduring the hassle of waiting. 

How can I access this service? 

You can find an Allied Pharmacy that provides this service by entering your postcode above. This will give you with a list of nearby pharmacies with their addresses and opening hours. 

You can also look for an Allied Pharmacy here, where you will find contact details such as a phone number, email address and directions. This will enable you to contact your local pharmacy for any queries or information regarding our Ear Infection Treatment (private) service and more.