![\"\"](\"https:\/\/comprehensiveentva.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/swiimers-ear-768x512.jpg\" "\\"swiimers-ear\\"")
\nWhen water becomes trapped in the ear, bacteria can cause inflammation and infection of the ear canal. This painful affliction is known as swimmer\u2019s ear and can occur following exposure to any moist environment. It is most common in children and teenagers, individuals with eczema and anybody with excess earwax.<\/p>\n\n
Anybody who comes into frequent contact with water could develop swimmer\u2019s ear (also known as external otitis). Activities such as swimming, surfing, diving and bathing are the most common causes. Water entering the ear canal can become trapped, especially when earwax is present. Any cut in the skin of the ear canal can increase the risk, as will coming into contact with water that is polluted or contains excess bacteria. Despite the name, water exposure isn\u2019t the only way of contracting swimmer\u2019s ear; it can be caused by anything that damages the protective film of the ear canal, such as cotton swabs, chemicals found in hairspray or hair dyes, etc. Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and seborrhea may also contribute.<\/p>\n
Itchiness and pain are usually the first symptoms to appear. There may be a feeling of fullness in the ear, followed by swelling, redness and drainage of fluids. Fever, temporary hearing loss, and swollen lymph nodes may occur. <\/p>\n
The best way to prevent swimmer\u2019s ear is to keep moisture from entering the ear canals.
\nThere are earplugs specially designed for swimmers that will keep water out. Or, as long as you don\u2019t have a perforated eardrum, try a solution of vinegar and rubbing alcohol applied in droplet form to your ears before any water exposure. Wear a shower cap when bathing, and always dry your ears thoroughly after swimming and bathing.<\/p>\n
If you do develop swimmer\u2019s ear, home remedies are often a simple and effective method of treatment. Rinse and flush your ears with a saline and vinegar mixture, making sure to dry the ear well afterward. Use a warm compress and over-the-counter pain medication (such as ibuprofen) to treat discomfort. If your condition is the result of a bacterial infection, you will need antibiotic ear drops.<\/p>\n