Outer ear infection - Adults

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 10–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

What it is

An outer ear infection is an infection in the ear canal, between the outer ear and the ear drum. It can hurt or itch. There may be some discharge, especially after swimming or when water stays trapped in the ear.

What you can do at home

What to do

If you are already seen a healthcare professional for ear infections, follow their advice. 
If you are in pain, you can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), if there are no contraindications. Ask for advice at the pharmacy. 
If there is any discharge, gently clean only the outside of the ear with a tissue. Throw away the tissue and then wash your hands.
- Sleep on the side of the ear that has discharge (to help it drain).
- Keep the ear dry and do not put anything (such as hearing aids, ear plugs, ear buds, cotton swabs) in the ear until it has healed.
For recurring outer ear infections, ear drops can be used after swimming. Ask for advice at the pharmacy.
To prevent outer ear infections, always clean objects that go in the ears (ear buds, hearing aids) according to the pharmacist’s or the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Avoid

Avoid soap and dry the outside of the ear well after showering or bathing.
Do not use a cotton swab (Q-tip) to clean the ear.
Do not use these drops if the ear drum is perforated or if there is discharge.

When to seek medical attention

If you have any of these signs:

You think you have an ear infection and you have a fever;
Your symptoms do not improve after three days of treatment.

Call 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse, or contact a healthcare professional (pharmacist, doctor, or nurse practitioner), if any of the signs listed above apply.

When to go to the hospital right away

You suddenly feel that:  

It’s harder than usual to stay awake or you respond less to what is going on around you;  
You are confused;
You are eating less, drinking less, and having a hard time accomplishing your normal daily tasks;

Your ear is very painful and it is not improving.

You have a fever and you are pregnant.

The ear appears swollen, red, or hot.

You have weakness or tingling in your face, even if it clears up.

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time. 

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment. 

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC. 

If you do not have a family doctor, go to https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/en or call 811, Option 3.  

Outer ear infection - Adults

What it is

What you can do at home

When to seek medical attention

When to go to the hospital right away

Need help?

See also

Gastroenteritis

Superficial Wound