How to treat otitis externa?
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Hello, my uncle was a 59-year-old engineer who was originally referred by his GP for a severe episode of chronic otitis externa. Since initial treatment he has had regular follow-up appointments. But his conditions are not improving. How to treat otitis externa?
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@deepan Otitis externa is an inflammation of the ear canal. The inflammation is usually caused by infection, although it can sometimes be due to allergy or irritation. Treatment with ear drops is usually effective. Further episodes of the condition can often be prevented by the tips given below. Otitis externa usually clears within a week or so. When otitis externa is short-lasting, it is described as 'acute otitis externa'. However, sometimes it persists for three months or more and is then described as 'chronic otitis externa. Most people with otitis externa are given treatment without having any tests, as the diagnosis is usually clear from examination of the ear. If you recognize the condition yourself you could try some ear drops for otitis externa. These are available without prescription, such as those containing 2% acetic acid. Ear drops are usually enough to cure a bout of short-lasting (acute) otitis externa. However, other treatments are sometimes added