Bacteria, fungi, and viruses have all been implicated in causing ear infections called otitis externa. The most common cause of otitis externa is bacterial infection. The usual offenders include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes.

Antibiotics which can be applied directly to the skin of the ear canal (topical antibiotics ) are usually excellent for treatment of otitis externa. These are often combined in a preparation which includes a steroid medication.

bacterial infection

True

Keeping the ear dry is an important aspect of prevention of otitis externa. Several drops of a mixture of alcohol and acetic acid can be put into the ear canal after swimming to insure that it dries adequately.