Otitis externa

Otitis externa is inflammation or infection of the external auditory canal, the passage from the outer ear to the eardrum. It often causes ear pain, itching, and discharge.

External auditory canal: The curved passage running from the outer ear to the eardrum. This is the tissue that becomes inflamed or infected in otitis externa.
Acute otitis externa: A sudden-onset inflammation or infection of the external auditory canal, usually lasting less than six weeks. This common form accounts for most short-term cases.
Outer ear: The visible ear and external auditory canal, which collect and conduct sound toward the eardrum. Otitis externa affects the canal, one part of the outer ear.
Otitis media: Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, behind the eardrum. It affects a different ear compartment and often has different examination findings and treatment.
Cerumen: A waxy secretion that lubricates and protects the external auditory canal. Removing or disrupting this protective barrier can make the canal more vulnerable.
Swimmer's ear: A common name for acute otitis externa associated with water exposure. Swimming is a familiar risk because trapped moisture favors canal irritation and infection.
Tympanic membrane: A thin membrane separating the external auditory canal from the middle ear. Its condition matters when examining the canal and choosing safe ear drops.
Earwax impaction: A buildup of earwax that partially or completely blocks the external auditory canal. It can cause blockage or discomfort without the canal infection that defines otitis externa.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A bacterium that thrives in moist environments and can cause infections in humans. It is a common cause of acute bacterial otitis externa, especially after water exposure.
Ear pain: Pain experienced in or around the ear. Canal tenderness and pain, often worse when the outer ear is moved, are characteristic symptoms.

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