Swimmer's ear is an infection or inflammation of the ear canal and outer ear. It's often caused by excess water in your ears that provides a comfortable home for bacteria. The infection is painful but easily treatable; seeking prompt medical attention will prevent it from spreading and becoming a serious issue. Medication can clear the infection and lessen the pain. There are also things you can do at home to aid treatment and prevent recurrence.
Ear Drops
A visit to your doctor is essential if you suspect you have swimmer's ear. Using prescribed ear drops for up to two weeks is the most common treatment method. The ear drops will contain antibiotics or antifungal medicine if your infection comes from fungus rather than bacteria. You may also receive ear drops with vinegar to restore the pH balance within your ear. Cold ear drops are sometimes uncomfortable, so Mayo Clinic recommends warming the bottle by holding it in your hands for a few minutes before using.
Steroids
Swimmer's ear is often accompanied by mild-to-severe inflammation. Your doctor may give you ear drops that contain steroids to combat the inflammation. Itchiness is also often a symptom of the infection; steroids can help with that. Corticosteroids are similar to hormones produced in the adrenal glands and are most often prescribed, as they are particularly good for local treatments. When used in ear drops, they reduce inflammation without negatively affecting the rest of your body.
Pain Medication
The worst part of swimmer's ear is the accompanying pain. You can take over-the-counter medication to help relieve pain, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Consult your doctor for a recommendation and follow dosage instructions carefully. If your infection is severe your doctor may give you a prescription for stronger pain medication.
Tips
While you are undergoing treatment for swimmer's ear, be very careful to keep your ears as dry as you can. The website, FamilyDoctor, recommends skipping showers and taking baths instead, using a cotton ball loosely placed in your ear to avoid water. Don't put anything in your ears until the infection is cleared up, including headphones. Definitely do not go swimming; Mayo Clinic states that air travel is not a good idea.
Prevention
If you swim for prolonged periods of time, Texas Children's Hospital notes that a mixture of 2 ml. of rubbing alcohol and 2 ml. of white vinegar will help maintain a healthy environment in your ear. Use two to three drops in ears that feel stuffy after swimming. If you are prone to swimmer's ear, you can put a few drops in your ears before swimming. The mixture works for children and adults alike. Make sure you dry your ears well with a towel after swimming, bathing or showering.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org; Swimmer's Ear; January 2010
- PubMed Health; Swimmer's Ear; August 2010
- Mayo Clinic: Swimmer's Ear Treatments and Drugs
- Texas Children's Hospital: Prompt Treatment for Swimmer's Ear Recommended by Texas Children's Hospital
- Eastern Maine Medical Center; Swimmer's Ear; Dr. Joanmarie Pellegrini; June 2011
- Cleveland Clinic: Corticosteroids
