SWIMMER'S EAR (Otitis externa) - Treatment & Prevention Guide

Swimmer's ear is an infection of the external ear canal that is in no way limited to pool swimmers. The Pseudonomas bacteria is usually responsible, but swimmer's ear is often confused with eczema since the latter occurs frequently in the ears.

Itching is usually the sign of the onset of swimmer's ear, fol­lowed by pain and a feeling of fullness in the ear. The outer ear appears normal, but the external canal may be very tender. Pres­sing on the ear or pulling on the ear lobe causes pain.


Treatment - SWIMMER'S EAR (Otitis externa)


The most effective medications require prescriptions. During treatment, it may be necessary to stay out of the water until the infection has resolved.


Prevention- SWIMMER'S EAR (Otitis externa)

One of the major goals is to keep water out the ears; using earplugs or wearing a bathing cap while showering may not be entirely effective. Vigorously shaking the head, fanning the ear canal, opening or blowing it with a hair dryer will help dry the ear canal. Foreign matter should never be inserted into the ear canal, particularly hard, sharp objects. Such trauma to the ear canal may upset the delicate chemical and bacterial balance there, opening the way for infections. It is not necessary to clean the wax out of the ear. If one insists on pursuing earwax or if wax has blocked the ear, drops are available to soften and help remove these secretions.

Acetic acid in water or alcohol is an excellent preventive for swimmer's ear, since the Pseudomonas bacteria can't tolerate an acidic environment. A useful solution can be made from white household vinegar with equal parts water, glycerine or rubbing alcohol. This will yield the desired 2 to 2 1/2 percent acid solution, and should be dropped into the ear canal after swimming and anytime the ear is wet.