Genesee County Health Department
Better Life Through Better Health
Swimmer’s Ear
A day at the lake or pool is
often followed by days of itching, swelling and pain in one or both
ears. Water in the ears creates the perfect environment for bacteria and
fungi to grow, causing an infection of the outer ear canal. Commonly
called "swimmer’s ear," this infection can occur after
showers, baths, washing hair and, of course, swimming.
Symptoms range from the ear
feeling itchy to the ear canal swelling shut and oozing a milky liquid.
Touching or tugging on the external ear can cause intense pain. Glands
in the neck may become swollen.
If the problem is just in the
itchy stage, over the counter swimmers eardrops can often take care of
the early infection. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instruction
for the product. If your doctor says it is safe, a home remedy can be
used instead. Clean the ear canal with a solution that is half white
vinegar and half water. Use a squeeze bottle to fill the ear canal with
this mixture. After five minutes, drain the solution from the ear by
turning the head to the side. Do this twice a day. Keep the ear dry
during the rest of the day. If the itchy ear does not clear up and
swelling and pain occurs, revisit a health care professional. A
prescription for an antibiotic and
anti-inflammatory drops may be
needed.
To prevent swimmer’s ear
after showering or swimming, drain ear canals of water by tilting the
head to the side, wiping dry the ear opening, and then using over the
counter drops or a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol
after every swim, or whenever water becomes trapped in the ear.
For more information, contact
the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 257-3612.
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