From the Guidelines
To prevent otitis externa, individuals should prioritize removing obstructing cerumen, using acidifying ear drops, drying the ear canal with a hair dryer, using ear plugs while swimming, and avoiding trauma to the external auditory canal, as recommended by Rosenfeld et al 1. When it comes to preventing otitis externa, several key strategies can be employed to reduce the risk of infection.
- Removing obstructing cerumen is an important step in preventing otitis externa, as it can help to reduce the risk of bacterial and fungal growth in the ear canal.
- Using acidifying ear drops shortly before swimming, after swimming, at bedtime, or all three, can help to restore the ear's natural acidic environment and inhibit bacterial growth, as suggested by Rosenfeld et al 1.
- Drying the ear canal with a hair dryer can also help to prevent moisture from becoming trapped in the ear, which can contribute to the development of otitis externa.
- Using ear plugs while swimming can help to prevent water from entering the ear canal, which can reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoiding trauma to the external auditory canal is also crucial in preventing otitis externa, as it can help to prevent the introduction of bacteria and other pathogens into the ear canal. By following these strategies, individuals can help to reduce their risk of developing otitis externa and maintain the health and integrity of their ear canals.
From the FDA Drug Label
Use dries water in the ears and relieves water-clogged ears after swimming showering bathing washing the hair The alcohol (OTIC) drug label suggests that it can be used to dry the ears and relieve water-clogged ears after activities such as swimming, showering, bathing, or washing the hair.
- This can help prevent otitis externa by removing excess moisture from the ears, which can contribute to the development of the condition. The use of alcohol (OTIC) as described may help prevent otitis externa by reducing moisture in the ears 2.
From the Research
Otitis Externa Prevention Measures
- Avoiding excessive moisture and trauma to the ear canal is crucial in preventing otitis externa, as these factors can impair the canal's natural defenses 3
- Drying the ears with a hair dryer and avoiding manipulation of the external auditory canal may help prevent recurrence 3
- Acidification with a topical solution of 2 percent acetic acid combined with hydrocortisone for inflammation can be an effective prophylactic measure when used after exposure to moisture 3
Role of Topical Preparations in Prevention
- Topical antibiotic preparations may not be necessary in the management of otitis externa, as studies suggest that they convey no significant benefit in this condition 4
- Topical non-antibiotic treatments, such as antiseptics and steroids, can be effective in preventing and treating otitis externa, with some studies showing no significant difference in cure rates compared to topical antibiotic agents 5
- A combination of polymyxin B sulfate, neomycin sulfate, and gramicidin (PS) has been shown to be effective and well-tolerated in the treatment of acute bacterial otitis externa, with results superior to glycerol treatment in some cases 6
General Prevention Strategies
- Maintaining good ear hygiene and avoiding factors that can disrupt the ear canal's natural balance, such as excessive moisture and trauma, can help prevent otitis externa 3, 7
- Using ear drops or other topical preparations as directed by a healthcare professional can also be an effective way to prevent and treat otitis externa 3, 5, 6