The overgrowth of any fungus is a result of several factors such as:
- Moisture trapped in the ear due to sweating or while swimming
- Humid climate or high temperatures
- Water that contains bacteria
- Insertion of foreign objects into the ear such as Q-tips, fingernails or hearing aids
- Skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis
- Any type of trauma or injury to the ear canal
You mention that you suffer from symptoms such as itching and fluid from the ear. Depending on the severity of the infection, you may also experience other symptoms such as scaly or dry skin in the ear, visible debris in the ear, pus secretions in the ear, tinnitus or ringing in the ear and impaired hearing.
Since antibiotics are not working for you, you could try any of the following home remedies:
- Apply a small amount of warm olive oil into the ear to prevent a buildup of wax and an increase in the growth of the fungus. This can be done even after the infection clears as a preventative measure. To increase the potency of the home remedy add some garlic the olive oil and let it steep before warming it up and using it in the ears. The antibacterial properties of garlic help fight the infection and speed up the healing process.
- Mix equal quantities of hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, white vinegar and warm water and pour this solution into the ear. Tilt your head and hold the position for a minute so that the solution reaches all parts of the ear. Drain out and clean and dry the ear after this treatment.
- If you swim or find that excessive moisture collects in your ears after your bath, simply use a hair dryer on a low setting to dry the ears completely.
- To stop liquid oozing out of your infected ear, warm some salt in a microwave or on a dry pan. Place this hot salt into a clean cloth or sock and use this as a warm salt compress on the ear. This will help reduce the pain and stop the build up of fluid in the ear.
answered by G M