Swim teams, swimming pools, splash pads & sprinklers. These summer fun essentials can sometimes lead to ear pain. Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa is an inflammation of the external ear canal. This is different than a middle ear infection, otitis media that is often a complication of an upper respiratory infection, or head cold.
Swimmer’s ear occurs when water gets into the ear—usually during swimming or bathing—and does not properly drain. When that happens, the canal can become irritated and infected. It is very painful and must be treated with a prescription antibiotic drop.
The good news is that swimmer’s ear can be prevented very simply. When your child has finished swimming for the day, rinse both ears with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Alcohol dries the ear canal and vinegar kills bacteria and other infectious organisms, like yeast. It’s important to remember, this solution can help prevent, NOT TREAT swimmer’s ear and is NOT recommended for children with ear tubes. If your child complains of ear pain and/or itching after lots of water play, call your doctor. As always, for more information you can visit healthychildren.org
Swimmer’s Ear
