What is the medical term for a middle ear infection?
Otitis media (ear infection). Involves the middle ear, which is located just behind the eardrum.
Will middle ear infection go away?
Middle ear infections often go away on their own within 2 or 3 days, even without any specific treatment. In some cases, an infection can last longer (with fluid in the middle ear for 6 weeks or longer), even after antibiotic treatment.
What do you do when the inside of your ear itches?
Itching by itself without evidence of trauma or infection can be treated with a mild steroid ear drop. A few drops placed in the ear will help to decrease the amount of itching. Another helpful treatment is the use of 70% alcohol (rubbing alcohol) as an ear drop.
Can you put steroid cream in your ear?
Treatment of Chronic Otitis Externa Topical corticosteroids (eg, 1% hydrocortisone cream or a more potent 0.1% betamethasone cream) can decrease inflammation and itching. Patients should avoid using cotton swabs, water, and other potential irritants in the ear, because these will aggravate the inflammatory process.
How do I moisturize my ear canal?
In harsh climates, both hot and cold, petroleum jelly can help soothe and moisturize dry ears. Preparations containing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or vinegar are not usually helpful for dry ears but may help relieve itchy ears. It is best not to use cotton swabs for cleaning because they tend to over-clean the ear.
What is the white flaky stuff in my ears?
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes flaky, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas such as the scalp, face, or inside the ear. It can occur with or without reddened skin. Cradle cap is the term used when seborrheic dermatitis affects the scalp of infants.
Can I use hydrocortisone in my ears?
Hydrocortisone is a steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation. Acetic acid and hydrocortisone otic (for the ear) is a combination medicine used to treat infections in the ear canal, and to relieve the symptoms of redness, itching, or swelling.