What should I watch out for?

Rarely does external otitis become serious. The most serious complications occur if the infection spreads to the outside of the ear or into the surrounding cartilage or bone. This complication occurs more frequently if one’s diabetes is out of control. When this occurs, your ear or side of your face may become red, swollen, or tender. One may also develop high fevers and become ill. Occasionally, the infection may affect the nerve of the side of your face causing facial weakness. If these symptoms occur you must call Dr. Pasha or report to the emergency room. You may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics.