Introduction:
Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal, the tube that runs from your eardrum to the outside of your head. It's often caused by water that remains trapped in your ear after swimming, creating a moist environment that aids bacterial growth. Other causes can include inserting objects into the ear canal, scratching the ear, or having skin conditions like eczema or seborrhea.
Swimmer's ear can affect people of all ages, but it's particularly common in children and teenagers. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include itching, redness, pain, swelling, discharge from the ear, and temporary hearing loss.
How is Swimmer's Ear Treated?
Treatment for swimmer's ear typically involves:
1. Cleaning the Ear Canal:
Your doctor will carefully clean your ear canal to remove any discharge, debris, or excess earwax. This helps medications work more effectively.
2. Eardrops:
Medicated eardrops are the mainstay of treatment for swimmer's ear. These drops usually contain a combination of ingredients such as:
- Antibiotics: To fight off bacterial infection.
- Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Acidic Solutions: To restore the natural acidic balance of the ear canal, making it less hospitable to bacteria.
3. Pain Relief:
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and discomfort. Your doctor may also prescribe stronger pain medication if necessary.
4. Avoiding Water Exposure:
It's crucial to keep your ears dry while recovering from swimmer's ear. This means avoiding swimming, showering without ear protection, and refraining from inserting anything into your ear canal.
5. Wick Placement:
If your ear canal is very swollen, your doctor may insert a wick. This small, sponge-like device helps medications reach deeper into the ear canal.
When to See a Doctor?
It's important to see a doctor if you suspect you have swimmer's ear, especially if:
- You have severe pain.
- Your symptoms don't improve after a few days of home care.
- You experience fever or chills.
- You have discharge from your ear that is bloody or foul-smelling.
- You have a weakened immune system or a history of ear problems.
