Whether you’re at the pool, lake, or beach this summer, don’t forget to take care of your ears – and avoid the dreaded swimmer’s ear. This condition can turn a fun swim into a painful ordeal if not properly managed. By understanding what swimmer’s ear is, learning how to prevent it, and knowing what to do if you get it, you can keep your ears happy and healthy all summer long.
What is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal. It often occurs when swimming in water that remains in your ear after swimming, creating a moist environment where bacteria can thrive. According to the Cleveland Clinic, swimmer’s ear can also happen after a shower if water gets stuck in your ear. Additionally, minor injuries to the ear canal from inserting fingers, cotton swabs, or other objects can lead to swimmer’s ear, as the delicate skin in the ear canal can easily be damaged, allowing bacteria to enter.
How to Tell if You Have Swimmer’s Ear
According to WebMD, the symptoms can range from mildly annoying to very painful. They include:
- Itching in your ear canal
- Redness and swelling
- Discomfort or pain, especially when you touch or pull your ear
- Fluid or pus draining from your ear
- Difficulty hearing
What to Do if You Get Swimmer’s Ear
If you think you have swimmer’s ear, it’s best to see a doctor. Mayo Clinic advises the following to help manage and treat swimmer’s ear:
- Ear drops: Antibiotic drops to get rid of the infection.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter meds to help with discomfort.
- Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation and itchiness.
- Keep it dry: Avoid swimming and keep the ear dry until it heals.
It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully cleared. Ignoring the symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to more severe infections, which might require more serious medical intervention.
How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear
Preventing swimmer’s ear is pretty straightforward. Mount Sinai recommends these steps:
- Keep your ears dry: Use earplugs or a swim cap to keep water out.
- Avoid swimming in dirty water: Dirty water contains bacteria, which increases the chance of getting swimmer’s ear.
- Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming: After swimming, tilt your head to each side to let water drain out, and use a towel to dry the outer ear.
- You can also use a hairdryer on a low, cool setting to help dry your ears.
- Don’t stick things in your ears: Cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects can irritate or damage the skin, making infection more likely. Earwax actually helps protect against swimmer’s ear, so it’s better to leave it!
- Use preventive ear drops: Mix 1 drop of alcohol with 1 drop of white vinegar and put in your ears after they get wet. This mixture will prevent bacteria from growing.
Wrapping Up
Swimming is a great way to have fun and cool off in the summer, but it’s important to take care of your ears. Understanding the symptoms of swimmer’s ear, along with prevention tips and treatments, can help you enjoy the water and avoid this painful condition. If you experience persistent ear pain or discomfort after swimming, don’t hesitate to get it checked out by a doctor.
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