Ask a doctor on the topic of Otorhinolaryngology

Ear infection caused by negligent behavior in the hotel.

August 3, 2012 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Hello,

I am currently on vacation in a 5-star hotel in Turkey. About 3 days ago, I developed an inflammation in the outer ear canal, or I had pain in my ear and after visiting the hotel doctor, he diagnosed that there was an inflammation in the external ear canal.
I was prescribed antibiotics, painkillers, and ear drops. At first, I tried to treat the symptoms with just the ear drops, but when the pain became unbearable, I started taking the antibiotics and painkillers (not as the doctor prescribed 2 times a day, but only as needed) and I am currently on the road to recovery. Initially, I didn't think much of it as one can get an inflammation at any time. However, after the incident, I noticed that more and more families in this hotel are affected by the same inflammation. I see new patients with ear pain waiting at the hotel doctor's office almost every hour, and I have already met over 20 people who complain of the same symptoms.

Could it be that the hotel acted negligently and that this wave of inflammation was caused by bacteria in the water?

I have also observed that after many complaints, a bucket of chlorine was poured into the pool.

If my suspicion is confirmed, I would consider filing a class action lawsuit against the hotel, as this would clearly be considered bodily harm.

I would greatly appreciate any assistance.

Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Dear inquirer,

There are many reasons for inflammation of the external auditory canal. One reason is, of course, an infection in a pool if it contains germs and the water with these germs enters the external auditory canal, for example during diving. However, before you file a complaint, consider that you not only have to suspect this connection, but also clearly prove it in this specific case.

Another cause of frequent ear infections can also be windy weather. Especially in summer with wet hair, ear infections occur more frequently.

In general, there are often epidemically increasing auditory canal infections in communal accommodations. The causes cannot always be determined. Transmission routes through towels, for example, would also be possible in a hotel.

Even though the presence of swimmer's ear is likely here, I would be cautious with suspicions. Obviously, the hotel has also considered this possibility and acted accordingly.

Wishing you a pleasant vacation,
Dr. R. Berg