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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Throbbing And Stinging Pain In The Outer Ear?

I just got back from Florida, and I haven t been in the ocean since yesterday around 10:30 am. Today at noon I noticed a throbbing pain in my outer ear, it wasnt too swollen but in the evening it has gotten even more swollen, from the lightest touch it stings a little, doesn t look like a pimple what so ever. I put some cortisone on my ear to see if that will kill the swelling. I d like to know the cause to this pain and swelling, and what I should do to treat this. I m not allergic to anything, the swelling and pain is on my left outer ear. Thanks for your help in advance to whoever answers.
Mon, 19 Aug 2019
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

You seem to have otitis externa. This is a bacterial infection and is very commonly related to swimming (is also called swimmer's ear). Corticosteroids may reduce the swelling in the ear but may make the infection worse so you will need some ear drops that have both a steroid and antibiotics. Polydexa is a possible ear drop to use, which has a combination of antibiotics and a steroid.

I hope this answers your query. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Throbbing And Stinging Pain In The Outer Ear?

Hello, You seem to have otitis externa. This is a bacterial infection and is very commonly related to swimming (is also called swimmer s ear). Corticosteroids may reduce the swelling in the ear but may make the infection worse so you will need some ear drops that have both a steroid and antibiotics. Polydexa is a possible ear drop to use, which has a combination of antibiotics and a steroid. I hope this answers your query. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed. Regards, Dr. Antoneta Zotaj, General & Family Physician