Can water in the ear cause otitis media?

Water entering the ear may lead to otitis media, but not everyone who experiences this will develop the condition. Water in the ear can potentially cause external otitis, tympanic membrane perforation, suppurative otitis media, and other illnesses, requiring specific analysis based on individual cases. Here are the details:

1. External Otitis

If water enters the ear and is not promptly cleared, it can lead to bacterial infection, causing external otitis. Symptoms include ear pain, redness, swelling, and discharge. In severe cases, hearing loss may occur. Treatment options include the use of Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Ear Drops and Chloramphenicol Ear Drops under medical guidance.

2. Tympanic Membrane Perforation

Failure to clear water from the ear promptly can damage the tympanic membrane, resulting in perforation. Symptoms include severe pain, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Treatment involves taking medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules and Cefixime Capsules as prescribed by a doctor.

3. Suppurative Otitis Media

Water lingering in the ear can allow bacteria to enter the middle ear cavity, causing suppurative otitis media. Symptoms include ear pain, discharge, and hearing loss. Treatment options include Cefradine Capsules and Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, taken as prescribed by a doctor.

4. Other Diseases

Individuals with pre-existing conditions like acute pharyngitis or rhinitis may also experience the aforementioned symptoms after water enters their ears due to inflammation. Symptoms may include throat discomfort and nasal congestion. Treatment may involve Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium Tablets and Tongqiao Biyan Pian (a traditional Chinese medicine for nasal congestion), taken as prescribed by a doctor.

In daily life, it is important to maintain personal hygiene and avoid scratching the affected area with hands to prevent aggravation of the condition.