Please note that the following is a general guideline only. For a full assessment, exclusion of any other underlying cause for your symptoms and an individualised treatment approach, you will need to be seen by a qualified specialist.
How to Manage Your Ears When Infected
DO NOT WEAR HEARING AIDS:
If you must wear them minimise the time of use and clean them afterwards.
KEEPING EARS DRY:
You may use blue tac; make it in to a large ball and cover the ear, but do not push it too far in to the ear canals.
DRYING YOUR EARS:
If water gets in by accident, use a hair dryer at an arms length to blow some warm air in gently in to the ear.
TREATMENT:
This is usually in the form of powder instilled by your surgeon. Some have anti fungal properties and others antibacterial properties as well as steroids to reduce swelling. The particles stick to the affected ear and deliver continuous medication.
You may be given additional steroid containing drops to use at home. If steroid drops are given for longer term use it will usually be once every second week or so. Make sure you remove excess drops from the ear by tilting your head. Do NOT USE STEROID DROPS IN THE PRESENCE OF INFECTION.
You may be given additional steroid containing drops to use at home. If steroid drops are given for longer term use it will usually be once every second week or so. Make sure you remove excess drops from the ear by tilting your head. Do NOT USE STEROID DROPS IN THE PRESENCE OF INFECTION.
FOLLOW UP:
Usually you will be seen at least once more for another suction and to ensure that no debris remains. Surgeon will then determine if you need to be seen longer term.
WHY DO SOME GET CHRONIC OUTER EAR INFECTIONS?
Ear wax, oils and acids keep the ear canals in a perfect balance to keep infections away. When ears get infected, this balance get altered. You and your surgeon need to work together to try and bring this balance back and the natural protective function of your ears. This at times requires many visits and a lot of treatment.
HOW LONG TO KEEP THEM DRY?
Some patients with chronic ear infections should keep water away from their ears long term. These patients should consider getting custom made ear plugs from their audiologist , especially if they wish to swim. You will also be given
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