What are outer ear infections and what causes them?
Outer ear infections are infections of the external ear canal that extend from the outer ear flap to the eardrum. They’re caused by water trapped in the ear canal, usually from swimming or showering, which creates a warm, moist environment for bacteria and fungus. They’re more common after swimming in contaminated water and in hot, humid climates. Infections are also more likely if the ear canal has been scratched (from picking inside the ear with a finger, a cotton swab or a sharp object) or the skin has cracks or breaks from a condition such as seborrhea or psoriasis. They’re more common in people with medical conditions that reduce the body’s immunity, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS. Contrary to what many people believe, earwax usually protects the ear canal from moisture and infection. That’s why parents should not try to remove earwax from children’s ear canals. Rarely, some people produce too much earwax, which can block the ear canal and trap moisture, leading to outer ear infecti
