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How can you care for otomycosis?
- Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
- Clean your ear canal and put in the medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. Follow the schedule that the doctor gives you.
- Do not put anything in your ear unless your doctor says it is okay. This includes cotton swabs or any other objects, such as your finger.
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar in your target range. This will help you fight the fungal infection.
- Keep your ears dry.
- Take baths until your doctor says you can take showers again.
- When you wash your hair, use cotton lightly coated with petroleum jelly as an earplug. Do not use plastic earplugs.
- Do not swim until your doctor says you can.
- If you get water in your ears, turn your head to each side and pull the earlobe in different directions. This will help the water run out. If your ears are still wet, use a hair dryer set on the lowest heat. Hold the dryer several inches from your ear.
Otomycosis: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have a new or higher fever.
- You have new or worse pain, swelling, warmth, or redness around or behind your ear.
- You have new or increasing pus or blood draining from your ear.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You notice changes in hearing.
- You do not get better as expected.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.