Swimmer's Ear
Quick Treatment Is Key Following diagnosis, oral medications containing ibuprofen, acetaminophen or a stronger medicine may be prescribed for pain management. Liquid drops containing a topical analgesic also may be prescribed.
- Antibiotic eardrops – some of which may contain steroids – may be prescribed for bacterial infections. Anti-fungal agents are used to treat fungal infections.
- Swimmers should stay out of the water until the infection is cleared.
Most importantly, people being treated should stay out of the water for at least five to seven days or until the infection is under control. "Even if your child is the star of the swim team and can't miss the 'big meet,' there's no reason to further irritate the external auditory canal," says Dr. Drutz. "With treatment, the condition usually clears in three to four days. Severe cases may take up to a week."
There are preventive measures parents can take to lower the risk of swimmer's ear. "When a child gets out of the water, dry the ears with a clean towel," says Dr. Drutz. "It's a good idea to use one of the over-the-counter preparations, a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or a home remedy of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar to maintain the ear canal's normal acidity. "
Dr. Drutz advises swimming only in pools that are chemically treated to maintain a normal pH balance. There may be a greater chance of acquiring swimmer's ear by swimming in a lake or river.
- Swim only in pools that have been properly treated to maintain pH balance. Rivers and lakes offer a greater chance of infection.
- Ears should be dried with a clean towel immediately after swimming.
- Used after swimming, over-the-counter preparations or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide can help maintain the ear's pH balance. A home remedy can be made with 2 milliliters each of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar. Several drops should be placed in the affected ear canal while the child stands with the head tilted toward the opposite shoulder. This position should be held for three to five minutes so the medication can run down the length of the canal. Then, cotton should be inserted in the outer opening of the canal and left in place for about an hour.
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