What is swimmer's ear? Is it a virus, an infection, or something else? Regardless of the answer, everyone wants to know how to get rid of it and how to prevent it from happening in the first place. In this blog post, we will explore different treatments for swimmer's ear and prevention measures you can take to avoid getting this painful condition.
AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth provides treatment for all ear infections, including swimmer's ear! If you find yourself suffering from any of the symptoms, our board-certified providers are there. Our children's urgent care services are available seven days a week. When your child gets sick, make sure they receive proper care and treatment by visiting AFC Elizabeth.
Signs & Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear
The first step in treating swimmer's ear is identifying that you have it. Swimmer's ear is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the outer ear. It can happen to anyone, but it is most common in people who spend a lot of time in the water.
People who have allergies or skin conditions like eczema are also more susceptible to swimmer's ear.
Symptoms of swimmer's ear include:
- Itching in the ear
- Pain when the ear is touched
- Redness or swelling of the ear
- Fluid drainage from the ear
- Decreased hearing
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor. Swimmer's ear is a treatable condition, but if it's left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems.
Treatment Methods of Swimmer's Ear
There are a few different ways to treat swimmer’s ear. The most popular methods are:
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help clear the infection and reduce pain and swelling.
- Ear drops: Ear drops are a common treatment for swimmer's ear. They can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Steroids: Steroids can help reduce inflammation.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
Swimmer's ear can be easy to prevent if you take certain precautions. There are a few simple things you can do to reduce your risk:
- Keep your ears dry: When you're swimming, wear earplugs or a swim cap. After, dry your ears with a towel.
- Avoid putting objects in your ears: Don't put objects like q-tips in your ears. This can damage the ear canal and lead to infection.
- Keep your ears clean: Clean your ears with a washcloth. Don't insert anything into your ear canal.
- See a medical provider if you have an ear infection: delaying early treatment can lead to complications.
If you are suffering from swimmer's ear, there are several treatments available to you. We have outlined the most popular and effective methods for you here. However, if you find that any of these home remedies do not work or your infection is severe, visit AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our providers can help treat swimmer's ear quickly and effectively so that you can get back to enjoying your summer activities.
