How to Treat Swimmer’s Ear
Being in the water is one of the best ways to cool down when it’s warm. While it’s definitely fun and satisfying, there are certain conditions that may dampen your water enthusiasm. One of these is otitis externa, also known as the swimmer’s ear.
What is otitis externa?
Otitis externa commonly known as Swimmer’s Ear is a condition characterized by inflammation, redness, or irritation of the outer ear canal.
Your ear canal is the tube that goes from the opening of your ear all the way to your eardrum. This tube is warm, dark, and prone to being moist. It can provide a suitable environment for bacterial and fungal growth. Although the external auditory canal has special defenses against these microorganisms (like the cerumen), these defenses can also fail.
What causes Swimmer’s Ear?
There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing otitis externa. This includes:
• Being in warm, humid places
• Trauma to the ear canal
• Improper cleaning of the ear canal
• Regularly getting water into the ear
• Presence of a foreign body in the ear canal
People who have certain chronic conditions are also at risk of having otitis externa. This includes those who have eczema or other forms of dermatitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis.
How would you know you have Swimmer’s Ear?
Although symptoms could vary, the following are the most symptoms of people who developed a swimmer’s ear:
• Redness of the outer ear
• Itchiness of the inner ear
• Pain or discomfort when touching or wiggling the ear lobe
• Drainage from the ear
• Hearing loss or muffled hearing
• A feeling of having a plugged-up ear
• Swollen glands around the ear or in the upper neck
• Fever
How is Swimmer’s Ear treated?
Treatment for otitis externa varies and depends on several factors including your medical history, overall health, the severity of your condition, and your preference.
Your treatment plan may include the use of medicated ear drops (antibiotic or corticosteroids), pain medication, and making sure that the affected ear is dry.
Can Swimmer’s Ear be prevented?
You can reduce your chances of getting otitis externa by avoiding aggressive ways of cleaning your ear. Even as simple as cotton wool buds can cause damage if they’re not used properly.
And if you swim or surf regularly, it would help to use earplugs to keep your ears from constantly getting wet.
If you suspect you or your child has a Swimmer’s Ear, our specialists at Greater Knoxville ENT can help. To request an appointment, please call (865) 244-4396 or fill out our contact form.