It’s that time of year again—time to run through the sprinkler, head to the lake or bring the kids to The Family Place waterpark. Whether you spend most of the summer in the water or just enjoy an occasional swim, it’s essential to be aware of swimmer’s ear and know how to safeguard your ear health this summer.
Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the ear canal. This condition occurs when water gets trapped in the ear, creating a moist environment conducive to bacterial growth. Although anyone can develop swimmer’s ear, it is more common among frequent swimmers, particularly those swimming in waters with high bacterial content like lakes or oceans.
Preventing Swimmer’s Ear
While it may not be possible to avoid all instances of swimmer’s ear, you can take steps to minimize the risk and keep your summer fun uninterrupted:
- Dry your outer ears with a towel thoroughly after swimming
- Tilt your head from side to side and gently pull on your earlobe to help water drain from the ear canal
- Use a hair dryer on the lowest heat and fan settings, held at least six inches from your ear, to help evaporate any remaining water
- Consider using earplugs during prolonged swims
- Ask your ENT specialist about drying drops if you swim regularly
- Swim in clean water environments
- Regularly clean your hearing aids or earbuds to prevent infections
What Happens if You Don’t Treat Swimmer’s Ear?
Sometimes, swimmer’s ear will arise even if you do everything right. In these cases, it’s essential to seek treatment immediately. Untreated swimmer’s ear can lead to serious complications such as temporary or permanent hearing loss, damage to bones and cartilage and chronic, deep tissue or widespread infections. Therefore, it’s essential to consult an ENT specialist at the first sign of symptoms, including but not limited to:
- Ear pain
- Itchiness in the ear
- Fluid drainage from the ear
- Blocked ear
- Muffled hearing
- Redness or swelling of the outer ear or lymph nodes
- Mild fever
Treatment for swimmer’s ear typically involves cleaning the outer ear canal and prescribing ear drops or medications to clear the infection. These medications may include:
- Acidic solutions to restore the ear’s natural antibacterial environment
- Steroids to reduce inflammation
- Antifungal medicines for fungal infections
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort
By taking a few preventative steps and seeking prompt treatment if swimmer’s ear occurs, you can ensure the best care for your ears this summer. For more information about swimmer’s ear or to schedule an appointment with our specialists, contact ENT & Allergy Specialists – Ear Nose and Throat Physicians and Surgeons today.
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