Infection can affect the outer ear, middle ear or inner ear
Cleaning the ears with cotton buds can cause an outer ear infection.
An outer ear infection, known as otitis externa, commonly occurs after swimming in a public swimming pool. Typically, it is caused by bacteria and sometimes fungi.
A middle ear infection, known as otitis media, is more common in children and usually occurs after an upper respiratory tract infection e.g. a cold. It is usually due to a viral infection.
An inner ear infection, known as labyrinthitis, usually occurs after a viral infection and typically settles within two weeks without treatment.
Otitis externa requires ear microsuction to remove the infection from the ear canal followed by antibiotic ear drops.
Otitis media is initially treated with paracetamol and drinking plenty of water. If the infection persists after a couple of days oral antibiotics may be required.
Labyrinthitis occasionally requires anti-sickness medication.
