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Ear discomfort, itching, and inflammation

Jun 05, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
In general, ear discomfort, itching, and inflammation may be caused by repeated ear picking, external otitis, otitis media, ear canal eczema, or external auditory canal papilloma, which can sometimes lead to fever. Symptoms can be improved through physical therapy, medication, and other treatments. If symptoms are severe, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying treatment. Maintain good daily habits to promote ear health.

Generally, ear discomfort, itching, and inflammation may be caused by repeated ear picking, external otitis, otitis media, ear canal eczema, or external auditory canal papilloma, which can sometimes be accompanied by fever. These conditions can be improved through physical therapy, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Repeated Ear Picking

Frequent and repetitive ear picking may damage the skin inside the ear canal. When secretions occur, they may irritate the damaged area, leading to inflammation along with symptoms such as discomfort and itching. Patients can follow medical advice to undergo physical therapies such as ultrasound treatment or infrared radiation.

2. External Otitis

External otitis is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections. Inflammatory factors may stimulate sensory nerves in the ear canal, resulting in pain and itching inside the ear. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as cefixime capsules or roxithromycin capsules for treatment.

3. Otitis Media

Otitis media is commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections, often secondary to upper respiratory tract infections. Pathogens enter the middle ear via the Eustachian tube, causing congestion and swelling of the tube, allowing bacteria and viruses to multiply in exudative fluid and trigger infection. As directed by a physician, patients may use medications such as erythromycin ointment or ofloxacin ear drops to alleviate symptoms.

4. Ear Canal Eczema

This condition typically refers to diffuse inflammation of the external auditory canal skin due to bacterial infection. It commonly occurs in individuals who live long-term in hot, humid environments, presenting with symptoms including swelling, itching, pain, and inflammation of the ear canal skin. Under medical supervision, patients may apply topical treatments such as hydrocortisone cream or betamethasone cream.

5. External Auditory Canal Papilloma

Improper ear picking may injure the skin of the external auditory canal. Human papillomavirus (HPV) can then infect the damaged site, stimulating normal tissue to develop papilloma-like changes, leading to external auditory canal papilloma. This condition may also cause pain and itching inside the ear. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and, under a doctor’s guidance, consider surgical intervention.

If symptoms are severe, prompt medical consultation is advised to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and avoiding spicy or irritating foods is important to support recovery.


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