Fungus / Otomycosis
Fungus / Otomycosis
Otomycosis is a fungal infection of the external auditory canal (outer ear). It is more common in warm, humid climates and among individuals with frequent moisture exposure in the ear.
Main Causes / Risk Factors
- Prolonged moisture in the ear (e.g., swimming, frequent water exposure)
- Hot and humid environment
- Frequent use of earphones or hearing aids
- Excessive cleaning or trauma to the ear canal (using cotton buds, fingers, etc.)
- Long-term use of antibiotic or steroid ear drops
Common Symptoms
- Itching or irritation in the ear
- Thick ear discharge (white, yellow, black, or grey in color)
- Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
- Mild ear pain or discomfort
- Decreased hearing (if fungal debris blocks the ear canal)
- Sometimes foul-smelling ear discharge
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is usually made by examining the ear canal using an otoscope, where fungal spores or debris are visible. The primary treatment is thorough cleaning of the ear canal (aural toileting) by a healthcare professional. This is followed by the use of antifungal ear drops, such as clotrimazole or miconazole. It is important to keep the ear dry during treatment to prevent recurrence. Oral antifungal medicines are rarely needed.
Antifungal Ear Drops / Creams
Once the ear is clean, the doctor will usually prescribe antifungal ear drops or ointments. Commonly used medicines include:
Clotrimazole ear drops or cream
Miconazole gel
Econazole drops
These help stop the fungus from growing and clear up the infection. The drops are used for 7–10 days, depending on the severity.
Hydrogen Peroxide in Otomycosis Treatment
Hydrogen peroxide (usually in a 3% solution) is sometimes used by doctors to help loosen ear debris, fungal material, or wax during ear cleaning. It can help bubble up and break down soft material inside the ear canal.
Ear Cleaning (Aural Toileting)
The most important step is to clean the ear canal properly. The ENT doctor will gently remove the fungal debris, discharge, and dead skin using suction, a probe, or under a microscope. This helps reduce irritation and lets medicines work better.
Maintain ear hygiene without over-cleaning
While it’s good to keep your ears clean, over-cleaning (using cotton buds, pins, matchsticks) can damage the ear canal and increase the chance of infection.