Home Remedy for Swimmers Ear and
Preventing Ear Infections
Eitan f via Wikimedia Commons
Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal caused sometimes by fungus but most commonly by bacteria. The frequent, prolonged exposure to water that occurs when someone swims regularly can wash away the oily, waxy substance that normally lines and protects the ear canal. In addition, even after the swimmer leaves the pool or pond, water can remain in the ear canal, creating a warm, moist environment that’s perfect for breeding bacteria. But you don’t have to swim to get swimmer’s ear. Anything that causes a break in the skin of the ear canal can lead to an infection. Dry skin or eczema, scratching the ear canal and vigorous ear cleaning with cotton-tipped applicators will increase the risk of developing otitis externa.
Symptoms of otitis externa include:
- ear pain, which can be severe
- itchiness in the ear canal
- a discharge of liquid or pus from the ear
- some degree of temporary hearing loss
Contact your doctor if you’re experiencing any signs or symptoms of swimmer’s ear, even if they’re mild. Call your doctor immediately or visit the emergency room if you have: Severe pain or Fever. For some home remedies, click the link below: