Swimmer’s ear is the inflammation, infection or pain in the ear that is caused by the water that remains trapped in the ear canal. The condition is more common in swimmers and hence the name. However, it can be experienced by anyone who as much as takes a shower! The main cause of the infection is a break in the lining of the skin of the outer ear. The break allows fungi and bacteria to enter the outer ear. The break can also be caused by scratching the ear area, cleaning the ears with cotton-tipped swabs, and other objects that are inserted into the ear such as headphones, earbuds, and hearing aids.
Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear
- Swelling
- Pain
- Draining pus
- Itching
- Difficulty in hearing
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ear
Home Remedies for Treating Swimmer’s Ear
Here are some home remedies to treat Swimmer’s ear. However, we recommend consulting your doctor first. Your doctor might prescribe ear drops which will help fight infection and allow the ear to heal. He might also prescribe antibiotics.
- Avoid swimming or water exposure.
- Apply heat to the affected ear. This will help to control the pain.
- Wear earplugs when you swim.
- Do not use cotton swabs to remove earwax.
- Always thoroughly dry the ears after taking a shower or swimming.
- Apply a warm heating pad will bring relief.
- Do not use hair dyes and hair sprays that can cause irritation to the skin. Wear cotton balls in the ears before you apply these to the hair.
- Avoid the use of earbuds and headphones when suffering from Swimmer’s ear.
- Prevention is always better than cure so always maintain good hygiene of the ears. Keep the ears clean and dry. Dry each ear thoroughly after swimming and bathing and wear earplugs while swimming.
