Any mention of ticks disgusts a person. These small animals have earned a bad reputation as they are carriers of many diseases. There are several thousand species of these individuals. One of the dangerous representatives is considered to be the ear mite.
This phenomenon of ear mites in humans is called tropical acariasis or otocaryosis. There are two types of it in humans:
- Ixodid tick. As a rule, this disease is temporary; these bloodsuckers cannot exist and multiply in the human ear for long. Their main habitat is considered to be the countries of Asia and Africa.
- Demodex mite. This colorless parasite, about 0.5 mm long, can live not only in the ear canal, but also in the hair and sebaceous glands. 97% of people are carriers of this.
Characteristic
Before starting treatment, it is important to determine the extent of the lesion and the type of ear flare.
Depending on the time of infection, ear mite parasitism can be in:
- the initial stage, in which the parasite has just entered the ear;
- acute stage, when the patient clearly manifests and progresses the main symptoms of the disease.
Depending on the type of parasite, ear mites are divided into:
- demodex mite , which lives in the ears, sebaceous glands and hair of humans. This type of parasite is very small in size, its body length is no more than 0.4 mm, so it is difficult to see with the naked eye. These mites feed on various types of human tissue and multiply rapidly;
- arags parasite most often found in attics, caves and abandoned buildings. This insect sometimes reaches 3 cm in length. The tick's body is oval and flat. The tick lives in hard-to-reach places and feeds only on blood. Adults can easily survive without food for 12-14 liters, and the larvae are viable for about 2 liters. After entering the victim’s body, arags mites quickly occupy the territory and begin to feed on blood;
- The ixodid tick lives in Africa and Asia, so you can only catch it while traveling or after buying fruits that come from these continents. Parasites of this species are on average no more than 5 mm in length when hungry. But after saturation, their size can increase to 30 mm. The body is brown or light yellow in color and has a flat structure at the moment of saturation. Ixodid ticks can live in fields and forests and move onto the victim, tightly clinging to human clothing or skin.
| Type of tick | Individual size, mm |
| demodex | 0,2-0,4 |
| arags | 5-30 |
| ixodid | 5-30 |
Argas mite
The entry of an argas mite into the human hearing organ provokes the onset of the development of ear otoacaryosis. In the early stages of this disease, there are no signs of infection with this parasite. The dimensions of this type of mite are microscopic – approximately 1 mm. Its body is somewhat oblong in shape and colored black. The size of the parasite noticeably increases after sucking blood from its victim.
Argasid mites usually live in dark rooms, which are empty houses, abandoned buildings, attics and closets. In addition, they are frequent inhabitants of agricultural buildings where poultry or livestock are kept. Another common habitat for argasid mites is bird nests. The bites of these parasites are painless, so conclusions can be drawn about a person’s disease only after the symptoms of otoacaryosis begin to appear.
First of all, swelling appears in the ear canal and pinna, accompanied by significant redness of the skin. At the same time, constant itching forces a person to comb the bite sites with fingers or cotton swabs. Like ixodid ticks, argasids are also carriers of various diseases.
Symptoms
Ear mites in humans, the treatment of which requires competent determination of the type of parasite, are similar in symptoms to infectious ear diseases and psoriasis. Often the patient does not even suspect the presence of the parasite. Due to their small size, Demodex mites cannot be seen, so their presence is determined only by individual symptoms.
Ixodid parasites inject painkillers into the bite, so their bites cannot be felt. However, there are common symptoms that indicate the presence of parasites in the ear.
When bitten by ixodid ticks, the patient experiences:
- irritation and redness in the ears;
- swelling of the ears;
- itching in the ears, especially at night.
Demodex mites cause the patient to:
- redness on the face and acne;
- ulcers on the skin of the face;
- severe itching in the ears;
- hearing loss.
As the mite multiplies and affects a larger area of the ear, the symptoms become more intense, and the itching in the ears becomes unbearable.
The arags mite manifests itself:
- redness of the skin around the ears;
- swelling of the ear canal;
- severe itching in the ears and a sensation of movement inside the ear;
- painful sensations in the ears;
- the appearance of spots, pimples and sores on the scalp in large numbers.
In all cases associated with ear mites, the patient experiences discomfort associated with the ears. Rarely, in addition to hearing loss, the patient may hear extraneous sounds and experience constant pain.
Causes
Ear mites are found not only in forests and fields, but also in abandoned houses and warehouses. Ticks reproduce especially actively in Asia and Africa. They remain viable for many years, so it is impossible to completely protect against parasites.
Ear mites in humans, treatment of which is carried out only after diagnosis, most often appears due to:
- eating dirty fruits or vegetables;
- drinking untreated water;
- visiting caves and abandoned buildings;
- being in unsanitary conditions;
- swimming in ponds;
- close contact with infected pets;
- reduced immunity;
- poor personal hygiene while traveling and visiting wild places while traveling.
Can you get ear mites from cats?
Pet lovers are often interested in the question: are cat ear mites dangerous for humans? It is worth noting that otodectosis is a rather dangerous disease for cats, since without proper treatment it can cause them to become deaf.
Moreover, if the meninges are infected, the death of the pet is inevitable. Ear mites found in one cat can infect other pets. Therefore, when parasites are detected, the infected animal should be separated from contact with healthy ones.
If we talk about people, then the type of ticks that live on cats is theoretically not dangerous for them. Official data from scientists confirms the fact that transmission of Otodectes cynotis from animals to humans is impossible. Although isolated cases of human infection with otodectosis have been reported, it was not possible to accurately determine the source of infection.
It is believed that ear mites are transmitted to humans only when the immune system is weakened or after contact with an infected animal. After an accidental infection, the victim may develop otitis externa. Therefore, if you suspect that your cat has ear mites, you cannot ignore the problem - you should immediately seek help from a veterinarian.
Diagnostics
Ear mites in humans, whose treatment is carried out comprehensively, are very difficult to determine at any stage of ear damage, so they are diagnosed using different methods:
Inspection and collection of information
When examined by an otolaryngologist, the doctor may note the presence of symptoms of ear mites: swelling and redness inside the ear. Examination of the auricle is considered the most effective way to identify ixodid and arags ticks, which a doctor can see with the naked eye. Based on the degree of damage to the ear, the doctor can determine the approximate time of infection and the degree of damage to the body.
If a person is infected with a Demodex mite, an external examination of the auricle, even with a magnifying glass, will not give any results. In this case, additional examination is required, which includes:
Direct microscopy method
This method effectively and painlessly allows you to determine the presence of any parasite in the ear. A swab is taken from the patient's ear for examination under a microscope. In the presence of demidex mites, large individuals are easily distinguishable on the glass surface when examined under a microscope.
For analysis, a skin scraping is taken from the patient's ear using a special device, which is transferred to glass for further study. Scraping of biomaterial allows you to determine the presence of parasites and the remains of their vital activity during the day. The smear is done at a medical center and its cost is about 1000 rubles.
Analysis of sebaceous gland secretions
The sebaceous glands in humans, in small quantities, squeeze out small parasites along with sweat. The study makes it possible to establish the presence of demodicosis in a separate area of the body, but does not give an idea of the extent of the damage.
The study is carried out by taking a sample from the sebaceous gland, in which the parasite may presumably be located, and is painful. The analysis is carried out only in specialized medical laboratories, its cost ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles.
Surface biopsy method
The superficial biopsy method is rarely used to identify ear mites due to the painful procedure, but in some cases it can easily identify the parasite. For examination, using an adhesive substance and a special scalpel, a separate area of the affected surface of the skin from the patient’s ear is taken for study.
The material is placed on glass and examined under a microscope for the presence of mites and their eggs and larvae. The study is carried out exclusively in medical laboratories and skin and venereal disease clinics. The cost of the study is 1800 rubles.
When to see a doctor
Ear mites in humans are extremely rare and always require special treatment from a specialist. When the parasite enters the human body in the form of an egg, it develops within 7-14 days, and several months may pass before the first symptoms of the disease appear.
It is important to remember that the symptoms of ear mites are similar to infections that affect the ears. Infectious diseases are treated with antibiotics and hormonal ointments, which do not harm the parasite, but rather promote its growth and development. While the itching and pain in the patient’s ears will only get worse during the treatment period.
Therefore, when the first ailments appear in the ears in the form of redness, pain and itching, it is important to immediately contact a specialist for examination and consultation. Only correct diagnosis of the degree of damage and type of tick will allow you to choose the optimal treatment option and restore health.
Ear mites in humans are treated by a dermatologist or parasitologist in consultation with the attending physician and otolaryngologist. If necessary, the doctor conducts an examination and prescribes tests.
In some cases, the patient can independently detect a tick in the ear. In this case, it is also necessary to contact a specialist to prevent the development of ear mites from eggs and pupae that may have remained in the ear.
Act now
Many owners are frightened by the complexity and painstakingness of therapeutic procedures. In the early stages, the disease is treated for 7 days, then preventive measures are started. In an advanced state, drug therapy will take at least a month, after which a long rehabilitation and restoration of immunity is carried out. During therapy, the pet is quarantined, completely excluding its contact with other animals.
It is important to adhere to all instructions from a veterinarian.
If you notice alarming symptoms, do not let the situation take its course. Remember that despite a positive prognosis in 90% of cases, 10% result in complete hearing loss or death in affected animals. An ear mite that has reached the nerve tissue is the most dangerous possible outcome.
Monitor your pet's condition and do not forget about prevention. If you suspect otodectosis, do not hesitate and do not try to treat the animal yourself. After all, an incorrect diagnosis can cost lives.
You should acquire a useful habit: make an appointment at the veterinary clinic once a month. During a structural examination, the doctor will pay attention to all the details in your pet's health, which will prevent any diseases and maintain his health.
The health of your pet is entirely in your hands, so you need to carefully monitor it!
Treatment methods
An ear mite in humans, which can only be treated by a specialist, is a serious parasite that weakens the patient’s immunity and reduces his level of health.
Therefore, in addition to ear problems, the patient often suffers from an exacerbation of a chronic disease and a significant decrease in immunity. Before undergoing treatment for ear mites, the patient is prescribed a course of restorative therapy and vitamins.
Treatment of ear parasites is carried out in a complex, which includes:
- flushing the ear canals;
Ear rinsing is carried out to remove the parasite, its eggs and waste from the ear canals. Washing can be carried out both in the clinic and at home.
Washing ixodid and aragsid ticks is carried out once to remove the parasite and has an optimal effect. Rinsing is carried out with alcohol-containing compounds, which are poured in 10 drops. in each ear.
In case of Demodex mite, for quick recovery, the patient is prescribed rinsing for 3-5 days with antibacterial drugs (hydrogen peroxide).
- Treatment with healing ointments;
Ointments help restore the skin and are used as an additional treatment. Healing antibacterial ointments without (levomikol, methyluracil) or containing an antibiotic (tetracycline, streptocidal) help not only heal the skin, but also cleanse the ear of the remains of the parasite.
- antihistamines that relieve allergic symptoms and vitamins to boost immunity;
Patients are prescribed general antihistamines, for example, suprastin. The drug is taken 1 tablet. 2-3 times a day for 5 days to quickly relieve itching and inflammation in the ears.
The alphabet is used as vitamins. The drug is taken 1 tablet. 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 30-60 days. The drug helps restore the balance of vitamins and microelements during a course of use and maintains a normal level of health;
- medications that affect parasites in the form of tablets and ointments.
Such preparations contain substances that have a detrimental effect on the nervous system and muscles of the tick. The drugs are most effectively used to treat Demodex mites and are used in courses of 1-1.5 months. with short breaks.
Treatment of ear mites is always carried out under the supervision of a doctor, who not only regulates the dose, but may also prescribe additional general medications and procedures.
Preventive measures
To reduce the likelihood of ear mite infection, you should follow some recommendations:
- The right choice of clothing for forest walks;
- Treating skin and clothing with special products aimed at repelling ticks;
- Compliance with hygiene measures;
- Careful selection of cosmetic products;
- Physical activity;
- Avoidance of stressful situations;
- Reducing the impact of bad habits;
- Maintaining the immune system.
If symptomatic manifestations characteristic of the presence of ear mites are detected, it is necessary to visit a medical facility. An experienced specialist, by clarifying the diagnosis and prescribing appropriate treatment, will avoid the development of infectious pathologies. You should not engage in self-treatment, as this often leads to undesirable consequences for the body.
Medications
The medication to treat ear mites depends on the type of mite.
For the treatment of Demodex mites the following is prescribed:
Metronidazole (Trichopol)
The drug actively affects the muscular system of the parasite, killing it from the inside. The medicine is prescribed at a dose of 0.25 mg 2 times a day for 4-6 weeks.
After a break, the course of the drug is repeated. The cost of the medicine is 300 rubles.
Tinidazole (phasizhin)
The medicine helps to destroy Demodex mites in the ears. The drug quickly suppresses the viability of parasites and their eggs, which are hatched naturally. Take the medicine 4 tablets. per day for 5-7 days. After 2 weeks the course is repeated. The cost of the drug is 150 rubles.
For the treatment of demodicosis, preparations containing sulfur are widely used.
Blefarogel
An active gel, which is applied topically, helps to destroy and remove parasites from the ear canal. The drug is instilled into the ear canal, 1-2 drops. 2 times a day. After 10-15 minutes, it is recommended to rinse the ear with 2-3 drops. warm water or hydrogen peroxide. The procedure lasts 10 days. The cost of the medicine is 200 rubles.
Benzyl benzoate
The drug in the form of an ointment prevents the proliferation of parasites and promotes skin healing. Effective during a course of treatment. Within a day after starting to use the drug, the itching goes away completely, and the inflammation decreases. The product is applied to the skin inside the ear with a cotton swab 2 times a day. The course of treatment is 10-14 days. The cost of the drug is 150 rubles.
To treat skin lesions, the patient is prescribed ointments.
Levomycetin
Levomycetin ointment quickly heals wounds, has antibacterial properties and helps restore the skin. The drug is applied 2-3 times a day for 5-7 days. The cost of the drug is 80 rubles.
To destroy arags and ixodid ticks, rinsing with alcohol solutions is used.
Alcohol solutions
A 70% alcohol solution or 0.9% sodium chloride is instilled alternately into each ear. The solution completely blocks the parasite's breathing, and it begins to crawl out. After it appears in the visible area, it is removed with tweezers, and the ear is dried. The same is repeated with the other ear. To heal the skin inside the ear, the patient may be prescribed to treat the skin with hydrogen peroxide and ointment.
Tetracycline ointment
Tetracycline ointment, which contains a general antibiotic, has an antiseptic effect. The ointment helps suppress negative microflora and restore the skin. The drug is applied morning and evening in a thin layer to the damaged area of the ear for 5 days. The cost of the drug is 50 rubles.
Traditional methods
Folk remedies are widely used to treat ear mites in humans.
Tar soap
Tar soap is used to combat the arags and ixodid ticks.
- To prepare the solution, tar soap is grated and dissolved in a small amount of warm water to obtain a concentrated solution (4-5 tsp of soap per 100 ml of water).
- The composition is mixed until smooth and heated if necessary.
- Soak cotton swabs in the mixture, then wring them out lightly and insert them into the ears for 15 minutes.
After this procedure, the parasite will come out on its own or it can be removed along with a tampon.
Washing with vodka
Alcohol-containing solutions are widely used to treat large ticks.
- A small amount of vodka is poured into the ears for 3-5 minutes.
- When a tick appears, remove it with cotton wool.
- The ears are thoroughly washed with water and dried.
Other traditional methods are used to treat Demodex mites:
Birch tar
A solution of birch tar is instilled into the ears or applied to cotton swabs and inserted into the ears for 10-15 minutes. Birch tar quickly suppresses the parasite and promotes its removal from the ear canals. The course of treatment is 5-7 days.
Calendula
Calendula has excellent antiseptic and healing properties in the fight against ear mites. Calendula tincture not only kills the parasite, but also helps cleanse the ears of the remnants of its vital activity.
Calendula tincture is applied to cotton swabs and generously lubricated the skin inside the ear canal 2 times a day for a week. After 2 uses, the itching is significantly reduced and the pain in the ears goes away.
Watermelon
Watermelon juice helps fight ear mites and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- The watermelon pulp is crushed and separated from the juice.
- The resulting juice is instilled in 2 drops. morning and evening for 3-5 days.
Watermelon juice reduces itching within 2-3 days after starting use. With constant use, it has a mild antiseptic effect and heals skin lesions.
Symptomatic manifestations
The presence of a small insect in the auricle causes a number of unpleasant and painful symptoms in the form of:
- Pain inside the ear;
- Sensation of the presence of a foreign body;
- Discharge from the ear;
- Swelling of the ear canal;
- The ear itches inside;
- Hearing loss;
- Rashes on the skin.
If you detect signs of the presence of a tick, you should seek medical help to prevent long-term treatment and the likelihood of complications.
Possible complications
Demodex mites, when they enter the body, develop slowly, but affect the entire ear. Gradually, the parasites begin to spread to the human scalp and sebaceous glands.
Lack of treatment may cause:
- scalp eczema;
- hair damage and baldness;
- hearing loss;
- decline in immunity.
The most dangerous to humans are considered to be ticks and ixodid ticks, which, in addition to feeding on blood and reducing immunity, can provoke infection with other serious diseases through their bite or waste.
These include:
- Lyme disease;
- tick-borne encephalitis;
- tick-borne relapsing fever;
- fungal diseases.
A long stay of a large parasite in the ear can significantly reduce hearing levels and cause constant headaches and neurological diseases.
Ear mites in humans are extremely rare if the general rules of hygiene and nutrition are observed, so the symptoms of this disease are often confused with infectious diseases.
However, if there is prolonged itching in the ears and discomfort or skin changes in this area, you should immediately consult a doctor. Painless and quick diagnosis, as well as a competent treatment package, can quickly rid the patient of the parasite and possible health complications.
