Water trapped in the ear can allow an infection to develop, leading to the common summertime malady, swimmer's ear. Symptoms of swimmer's ear include a clear or yellowish discharge, a feeling that the ear is clogged up, itchiness or pain in the ear canal, and pain when the ear is moved up and down or pressed on. Severe cases of swimmer's ear may require antibiotic ear drops, or, less frequently, oral antibiotics. Milder cases can be treated at home.
Step 1
Combine equal parts water and white vinegar in container. Shake or stir well.
Step 2
Position the individual so he is comfortably resting his head with the affected ear facing up.
Step 3
Pour or dropper a small amount of the mixture into the ear. Use enough to fill the ear canal. Allow the mixture to remain in the ear for five minutes.
Step 4
Allow the individual to sit upright and use a towel to catch the fluid as it drains from the ear. Blot the ear dry.
Step 5
Repeat this procedure twice a day for three days. If improvement isn't apparent on the third day, visit your healthcare provider; antibiotics may be necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- Use earplugs while swimming and gently blow dry ears after swimming to reduce the likelihood of developing swimmer's ear.
- Do not use this treatment if the individual has tubes in her ears or a discharge from the infection. Instead, contact her healthcare provider.
Things You'll Need
- Container with small opening or dropper
- Water
- White vinegar
- Towel
