Summer has arrived! As you enjoy the summer weather and swimming, don't forget to protect your ears! One of the most common maladies of summertime is an outer ear infection commonly referred to as "swimmer's ear." Swimmer's ear is an infection in the outer ear canal. It's usually caused by water that remains in the ear after swimming. This moisture creates an optimal environment for bacterial growth.
Symptoms of swimmer's ear include:
- Itching in the ear
- Moderate to severe pain
- Redness in the ear
- Fever
Swimmer's ear is usually treated by obtaining antibiotic ear drops from your family doctor. Sometimes it's necessary to obtain a steroid to reduce the inflammation that often accompanies this type of outer ear infection. If you suspect you may have swimmer's ear, it's important to see your family doctor immediately to prevent the infection from becoming worse.
Prevent Swimmer's Ear!
There are two common ways to prevent an outer ear infection caused by moisture. Visit an audiologist to have a swimmer's ear mold created that perfectly fits your ear. This ear mold is fairly inexpensive and prevents water from entering your ear while you swim. After you swim, dry your ears thoroughly. Use a blow dryer on a low setting and hold it about one foot from your hear to evaporate any remaining moisture.
For more information about the causes, treatment, and prevention of swimmer's ear, visit The Mayo's Clinic website.
Picture provided courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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