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Ear mites in humans are not as rare as you might think. We describe the symptoms of the pet parasites, as well as the treatment options.
Ear mites in humans: These are the symptoms
If you only know ear mites from pets, you’ll be surprised: The mites can also infest pet owners.
- The symptoms are similar to those of ear mite infestation in animals. Dark crusts appear in the auricle and outer ear canal.
- The crusts are not caused by the mites themselves. They form when earwax mixes with the parasites’ excrement.
- On closer inspection, you may discover small white dots in the crusts. These are actually the mites themselves.
- Infestation with ear mites can be accompanied by severe inflammatory symptoms on and in the ear.
- There is a risk that the mites will spread from the ear and cause a very itchy skin rash.
Treatment: The pet parasites are tough
Treatment of ear mites is not that easy.
- The pet parasites are tough. They can survive in their environment for up to three weeks. Therefore, in addition to disinfection, thorough general hygiene is important.
- In contrast to bacteria or viruses, ear mites do not respond to commercially available disinfectants. Special, locally applied medication is therefore necessary to kill the mites.
- The ears must be thoroughly cleaned beforehand. You cannot treat ear mites on your own. Consult an ENT specialist who can make an accurate diagnosis and carry out the treatment in a targeted and effective manner.
