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OTITIS EXTERNA AND DIVING

OTITIS EXTERNA AND DIVING. Or Swimmers Ear. Otitis Externa. External ear infection 2 nd most common diving medical problem Cause Bacteria normally found in ear canal NOT from bacteria in water. Otitis Externa. With frequent immersion: Water swells the cells lining the ear canal

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OTITIS EXTERNA AND DIVING

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  1. OTITIS EXTERNA AND DIVING Or Swimmers Ear

  2. Otitis Externa • External ear infection • 2nd most common diving medical problem • Cause • Bacteria normally found in ear canal • NOT from bacteria in water

  3. Otitis Externa • With frequent immersion: • Water swells the cells lining the ear canal • Cells pull apart • Surface bacteria get underneath skin • PH change from slightly acidic to base • Warm, moist environment for growth

  4. Otitis Externa • Symptoms • Itchy ear canal • Thin, white discharge • Pain/inflamation • Lymph node swelling/pain • Pain with moving jaw

  5. Otitis Externa • Prevention • Topical ear solution (Bausch & Lomb) • 2% acetic acid/aluminum acetate • Acid – retards bacterial growth • Astringent – draws excess water out of cells • Use at least twice daily • Solution must stay in 5 minutes*

  6. Otitis Externa • Prevention • Avoid cerumen buildup • Periodic flush with water • Do NOT use Q-tips • OTC solutions • Avoid alcohol-based drops • Irritating to ear canal • Destroys protective barrier

  7. Otitis Externa • Treatment • Requires physician evaluation • Cleansing of external ear canal • Topical antibiotics • Systemic antibiotics – severe cases • Pain medication • No diving for 5-7 days

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