Suggest Treatment For External Left Ear Infection

Posted on Mon, 25 Jan 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 25 Jan 2016 Answered on

Wed, 9 Mar 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : L have an external ear infection left ear only is topical antibiotics the only way to resolve this

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Topical antibiotics are one of the ways to treat Otitis Externa.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. In addition to local antibiotic ear drops, oral medication helps resolve the otitis externa. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, anti-allergic medication (to stop any itching) among others are used. Regular ear cleaning, medicated gauze wicks and steroids are useful.

2. If possible, the ear discharge should be cultured and checked for antibiotic sensitivity. This makes the treatment more effective. Blood sugar levels should be checked.

3. The ear examination is important to rule out ear drum perforations, fungal infections and many other important findings.

4. If you can request for an endoscopic image of your ear canal and ear drum, I will be able to give you an accurate assessment.

I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar