An inflamed ear canal doesn’t always mean you have an ear infection like otitis externa. In fact, inflammation can occur for a variety of reasons – from skin conditions and allergic reactions to physical irritation or improper ear cleaning. This guide will help you understand the possible causes of ear canal inflammation, its symptoms, and how to manage it effectively.
If your ear is inflamed, there could be several underlying reasons. Common causes include:
While otitis externa is a common cause of ear canal inflammation, it’s not the only one. The ear canal can become red, swollen or irritated due to:
These situations may not involve infection, and in many cases, they don’t require antibiotics. Instead, treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, avoiding triggers, and letting the skin heal.
Recognising the symptoms of an inflamed ear canal early can help you seek treatment before the condition worsens. Common symptoms include:
Ear drops for inflamed ears are often the first line of treatment. These may contain:
When selecting ear drops for inflamed ear canals, always follow your pharmacist’s or GP’s advice. Avoid self-medicating if unsure of the cause, particularly if there's pain or discharge.
Some people find relief from home remedies for inflamed ear canal, including:
Note: Never insert liquids or oils into the ear without medical guidance, especially if you suspect a perforated eardrum.
If your ear canal is inflamed but not infected, the approach to treatment will be different:
Recurring ear inflammation could be a sign of:
If your inflammation keeps coming back and infection has been ruled out, it’s important to explore non-infectious causes with your GP or audiologist.
Learn more on how your hearing works, thanks to our experts contents. You can also have a look at our blog, with our latest news.
