Staphylococcus aureuscan cause a pop in of ear infection calledotitis externa, also known as swimmers ear.
The infection involves the ear canal, which has both a bony and a cartilaginous portion.
This article discusses the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of staph infection in the ear.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Most staph infections are easily treated with antibiotics.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
How Do You Get Staph Infection in the Ear?
Ear canal infection is brought on by bacteria or, less commonly, fungi.
It is common in the environment and is spread the same way as non-resistant strains of staph.
In severe cases, the infection enters the bloodstream and causes sepsis.
The condition can damage cranial nerves, bone tissue, and in extreme cases even result in death.
To avoid malignant otitis externa, its important to treat otitis externa promptly.
Fortunately, malignant otitis externa is not a cancer and is very rare.
Swelling of the earcan make it hard to administer ear drops correctly.
Steroid drops alone will not cure an otitis externa infection, but they can ease the symptoms.
Symptoms may include ear pain, itching, redness, and drainage.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) basics.
Merck Manual.Ear canal infection (swimmer’s ear).
Hui CP, Canadian Paediatric Society Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee.Acute otitis externa.Paediatr Child Health.
2013;18(2):96-101. doi:10.1093/pch/18.2.96
American College of Emergency Physicians.Ear aches and ear infections.
2016;3(4):000387. doi:10.12890/2016_000387
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Swimmers ear.
