Ear infections are a common ailment, especially among children. There are many types of ear infections, but one of the most troublesome is swimmer's ear. Swimmer's ear can be extremely painful and make it difficult to hear. In addition, it can be quite challenging to get rid of. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to help clear up swimmer's ear and make your life a little easier.
AFC Urgent Care Lyndhurst provides ear infection treatment and earwax removal for patients in need. If you find yourself with the symptoms of swimmer’s ear, our medical providers can help get you the treatment you need. Visit our urgent care center seven days a week for urgent care services.
What is Swimmer's Ear, and What are the Symptoms?
When your outer ear becomes infected, that is called swimmer's ear. It is often caused by bacteria that enter the ear through a break in the skin.
Ear pain is the most common symptom. This pain is typically mild, but can turn severe if left untreated and is often worse when the affected ear is touched. Other symptoms may include:
- Itching
- Redness
- Swelling
- Drainage from the ear
- Difficulty hearing
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Without treatment, swimmer's ear can lead to serious complications, such as permanent damage to the ear canal or hearing loss. Infections can even spread to the brain and cause meningitis.
How is Swimmer's Ear Treated?
The good news is that swimmer's ear is usually quite easy to treat. In most cases, your doctor will prescribe ear drops that will help clear up the infection. These drops will need to be used for 7-10 days, even if your symptoms go away sooner.
If the pain is severe, your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter pain medication.
For example, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling. Be sure to take recommended dosages.
In some cases, swimmer's ear may require more aggressive treatment. For instance, if the infection does not respond to ear drops, you may need oral antibiotics. If the infection gets worse, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.
For a more permanent solution to swimmer's ear, professional ear cleanings may be the answer for you. AFC Lyndhurst can provides treatment that can help get rid of swimmer's ear for good. It is a simple procedure completed right in the clinic.
