2. OVERVIEW
• Otomycosis is a fungal infection that affects one, or
occasionally both, of the ears.
• It mostly affects people who live in warm or tropical
areas. It also often affects people who swim
frequently, live with diabetes, or have other chronic
medical and skin conditions.
• There are several treatment options for otomycosis,
but it can become chronic.
3. SYMPTOMS
Symptoms are common for otomycosis:
• pain
• itching
• inflammation
• swelling
• redness
• flaky skin
• ringing in the ears
• feeling of fullness in the ears
• discharge of fluid from the ears
• hearing problems
Discharge from the ears is one of the most common symptoms and may be
different colors. You may see white, yellow, black, gray, or green fluid.
4. CAUSES
• A fungus causes otomycosis. There are nearly 60 different species of
fungi that may be responsible for this infection. Common fungi
include Aspergillus and Candida. Sometimes bacteria can combine
with the fungi and make the infection more complicated.
• Otomycosis is more common in tropical and warm regions because
fungi can grow better in these areas. This infection is also more
common during the summer months. Fungi need moisture and
warmth to grow.
• People who swim in contaminated water are more likely to get
otomycosis. Even swimming or surfing in clean water can increase
the risk.
• In addition, people who have weakened immune systems, trauma or
injuries in the ear, eczema, or other chronic skin problems are at a
higher risk of getting this type of infection.
6. PREVENTION
• Avoid getting water in your ears while swimming or
surfing.
• Dry your ears after showering.
• Avoid putting cotton swabs inside your ears.
• Avoid scratching the skin outside and inside your
ears.
• Use acetic acid ear drops after getting water in your
ears.
