Otitis
Externa: The Swimmer’s Ear Infection
During
the hot summer months, it may be tempting to swim in a cool
lake or pool, but be careful. Otitis externa—a painful
infection of the ear—is one of many waterborne illnesses
you may come across. Often called swimmer’s ear, otitis
externa literally means “ear infection and inflammation”
(otitis) of the “outer” (externa) ear.
Any
exposure to water or excessive cleaning of the ears can
lead to otitis externa. As you shower or clean your ears
with a cotton swab, you may remove too much protective wax
from your outer ear. The skin on your ear may also be injured
by scratching it. In any of these situations, germs and
fungus are able to enter your ear and cause otitis externa.
Otitis
externa can be a very uncomfortable condition. It can cause
ear itching, severe pain, and congestion. You also might
notice a loss of hearing and drainage from your ears. To
fight the infection of otitis externa, you may need ear
drops or other medications, but even with medicine otitis
externa can be hard to treat.
In
addition to medication, there are some other ways to help
your otitis externa feel better. While bathing and washing
your hair, keep your ears as dry as you can. Washing or
scratching your ears can make your otitis externa worse.
Sometimes it’s better to take a bath instead of a
shower. You also should avoid all water sports if you have
otitis externa.
To
prevent otitis externa in the future, you should let your
ear’s natural defenses do what they do best. Using
cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears will break
down the natural barrier that protects your ears from otitis
externa. Don’t worry about ear wax unless it affects
your hearing. You should always keep your ears as dry as
possible, especially after swimming and showering. Earplugs,
unfortunately, are not beneficial in preventing otitis externa
and may actually irritate your ear canal. Swimming caps
and wetsuits work much better at protecting your ears. To
prevent otitis externa after swimming, it may also help
to use 1-2 drops of half rubbing alcohol and half vinegar
in each ear.
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