Otitis externa refers to inflammation of the external auditory canal located between the ear and the eardrum, often linked to moisture or skin lesions. It frequently affects children in the summer. Sometimes painful and uncomfortable, it is important to understand this condition in order to prevent and treat it more effectively. With our mobile app, you can record each episode and facilitate communication with healthcare professionals.

In the anatomical cross-sections below, you can compare a healthy ear with the area where otitis externa typically occurs.

Also known as “swimmer’s ear,” otitis externa often occurs after repeated swimming. When water remains in the ear, moisture weakens the skin of the ear canal and promotes bacterial or fungal growth.

• Acute otitis externa: This is the most common form in children. It appears suddenly, is often very painful, and is usually linked to stagnant water or local irritation.
• Chronic otitis externa: Less common, this type of ear infection develops over time. It causes moderate but persistent pain, sometimes with repeated secondary infections.

Otitis externa mainly manifests itself through the following symptoms:

• Douleur vive lorsque l’on touche le pavillon ou le conduit de l’oreille.
• Itching.
• Clear or purulent discharge.
• Slightly impaired hearing.

In children, the main causes of otitis externa are:

• Stagnant water (swimming pool, prolonged bathing).
• The use of cotton swabs or objects inserted into the ear.
• Dry or fragile skin, prone to damage.

The following treatments are usually recommended for otitis externa:

• Gentle ear cleaning.
• Consult a doctor as soon as the pain becomes too severe.
• Antiseptic or antibiotic drops (ask your doctor for advice).

Our dedicated mobile app will soon make it easy to record episodes of otitis externa.

Yes, it is possible to prevent otitis externa by taking simple precautions:

• Avoid inserting objects into your ear, such as cotton swabs or even your fingers.
• When swimming, use suitable earplugs.
• Track your history of otitis externa via our mobile app (currently under development).

Neglected otitis externa can lead to the following complications:

• A chronic infection of the ear canal.
• The formation of a localized abscess.
• In rare cases, perforation.
• A deterioration in the child’s quality of life.

The O-TECHNO mobile app helps families better manage episodes of otitis externa.

Key features:

• Symptom tracking journal.
• History of episodes to prevent recurrence.
• Treatment reminders.
• Alert in case of recurrence.

O-TECHNO is developing a comprehensive and innovative solution to facilitate the monitoring of otitis externa in children and adults.