Fungal ear infection (otomycosis)
Fungal ear infection is an infection of the outer ear. It is also known as otomycosis. It can affect one or both ears and can become inflamed, with dry, itchy skin. In some instances and people experience a smelly discharge too. It can become chronic but often is easily treated with anti fungal medication.
What causes a fungal ear infection?
The lining of the ear is protected by wax, also known as cerumen. If this wax is washed away by swimming in the sea or a pool, or reduced by overuse of cotton buds, your ears are more susceptible to fungal infections.
Fungal ear infections are more common in warmer climates, and in the UK they occur more often in summer than winter – fungi prefer moisture and warmth to grow.
Having diabetes or a weakened immune system may make you more susceptible to otomycosis. Eczema inside the ear can also be a cause, as can any trauma to the ear canal.
Symptoms of Fungal Ear Infection
How do we treat Fungal Ear Infection
There are a few options to manage, treat and maintain control of fungal infections within the external ear. Please see below some of the options we offer at The Nurse Clinic.
Microsuction or irrigation
A procedure which involves cleaning the ear to remove any discharge or debris buildup. If the debris build up is excessive then an irrigation machine may be used to flush out the excess using warm water. This should only ever be performed by a medical professional. Your ear is cleaned and dried. This will help inhibit the regrowth of any fungus.
ear drops
A private prescription for anti fungal ear drops may be given.
These ear drops may include:
- 1% Clotrimazole
- Fluconazole
- 2% Acetic acid
- 5% Aluminium acetate (also known as Burow’s solution)
- Miconozole
topical or oral medication
Topical medication is prescribed as a cream to apply to the outer ear for symptoms such as itching, dry skin or infection.
Very occasionally oral anti fungal medication if required to resolve an infection however blood tests are required prior to commencing this medication due to renal and liver function risks.
We therefore suggest on these occasions that you see your GP.
How to prevent Fungal Ear Infection?
Ear wax is a natural build up to protect the body from germs and keep the ears clean. It is made up of sebum which consists of a combination of fat, skin cells, dirt and sweat.
Below are a list of suggestions to help avoid developing fungal ear infections
The Nurse Clinic offers numerous services to help you feel better
Click on any of the links below to find out more. Whether it is to cure or reassure we will be here for you.
How do I know I am in safe hands at The Nurse Clinic?
The Nurse Clinic is CQC Registered
CQC (Care Quality Commission) Registered in 2022 for the following Regulated Activities
- Treatment of Disease Disorder and Injury.
- Surgical Procedures
For more information see link below
Donna Dady is NMC Registered
NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) is the mandatory regulatory board for all UK Nurses and Midwives in the UK. Their role is to:
- Promote high education and professional standards for nurses and midwives across the UK.
- Maintain the register of professionals eligible to practise.
- Investigate concerns about nurses, midwives and nursing associates
Over 25 years Experience in Nursing
Donna is the Founder and Advanced Nurse Specialist at The Nurse Clinic.
She completed her Registered General Nurse Training in 1996 and has an extensive background of experience within GP Practice and Urgent Care settings.
She has worked in Oxford, Leicester, London and also travelled extensively overseas and worked aboard cruise liners as a Nursing Officer.
She is competent in treating Adults and Children at an Advanced Level and is an Independent Nurse Prescriber.