Otomycosis is a fungal infection of the external auditory canal that causes itching, pain, ear discharge, and hearing impairment. Treatment of otomycosis is aimed at eliminating the fungal infection, restoring the normal condition of the ear canal skin, and preventing recurrence.
Symptoms of otomycosis
- Itching and burning sensation in the ear.
- Pain, especially when touching the ear.
- Ear discharge (may be white, gray, black, or yellow).
- A feeling of ear fullness and decreased hearing.
- Sensation of a foreign body in the ear.
Causes of otomycosis
- Prolonged use of antibiotics or steroid medications.
- High humidity and heat creating favorable conditions for fungal growth.
- Damage to the skin of the ear canal (for example, due to the use of cotton swabs).
- Reduced immune function.
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus.
Methods of otomycosis treatment
Conservative treatment
Cleaning of the external auditory canal:
- Removal of fungal debris, desquamated epithelium, and cerumen using special instruments or gentle irrigation.
- The procedure is performed by an ENT specialist to avoid skin injury.
Antifungal therapy: topical antifungal agents and antiseptic solutions (for example, boric acid) applied to the ear canal.
Systemic therapy (in severe cases): oral antifungal medications.
Anti-inflammatory therapy: medications to reduce edema and inflammation. Moisturizing agents to restore the skin barrier.
Correction of general condition: immunomodulators and vitamin supplementation to support immune function.
Additional methods
- Physiotherapy: ultraviolet irradiation (UV therapy) or laser therapy to accelerate healing.
- Dietary recommendations: limitation of sugary and refined carbohydrate foods that may promote fungal growth.
Prevention of recurrence
- Avoid water entering the ears (especially when swimming).
- Avoid using cotton swabs for ear cleaning.
- Maintain proper ear hygiene and normal moisture balance.
- Regular ENT follow-up in patients with chronic ear conditions.
Treatment of otomycosis requires a comprehensive approach that includes ear canal cleaning, antifungal therapy, and prevention of recurrence. Modern treatment methods allow effective symptom control and prevention of complications.
Otomycosis treatment is available in leading clinics in Belarus, where modern diagnostic and therapeutic methods are used with an individualized approach for each patient.
