How to Prevent Swimmer's Ear

Swimmer's ear (or otitis externa) is an inflammation and/or infection of the outer ear. It can be very painful and got its common name from occurring frequently in people who swim a lot. However, anyone can develop swimmer's ear from exposure to water, sweat and inadequate ear drying. This article will look at some simple maneuvers you can implement to prevent swimmer's ear from happening in the first place.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Equal parts of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar
• Bottle with ear dropper

How to Tell if You Have Swimmer's Ear

1. Swimmer's ear can very painful to touch and the least little contact with the infected ear can really hurt!

2. Ear fullness and skin discoloration are also signs of the infection and itching may occur along with a slight yellowish-brown discharge. Fever may also be present.

3. If you experience these signs and symptoms you should seek medical care.

How to Prevent Swimmer's Ear

4. Keep your ears as dry and clean as possible, especially after swimming or bathing. Never insert cotton swabs or any other sharp objects into your ear canal.

5. Avoid prolonged or any use of ear plugs. Ear plugs will "plug in" any bacteria, which will help the bacteria to grow and infect your ear.

6. Gently shake your head after water exposure and place a few drops of the alcohol and vinegar mix into each ear. Let them dry!

7. Avoid swimming in pools or bodies of water that are contaminated.

Tips & Warnings

• Prevention continues to remain the best medicine! If you swim frequently use the alcohol and vinegar mix on a regular basis.
• OTC swimmer's ear drops are expensive and do not provide any additional benefits to the good old alcohol and vinegar mix.
• As with any health care advice on the Internet, do not use this as a substitute for seeking medical care and advice in person from a professional health care provider.