What is swimmer's ear and how to treat it

Acute otitis externa, commonly known as swimmer's ear, is an infection in the external ear canal that affects about ten percent of people during their lifetimes. Adults experience it more commonly, while children face it only rarely, typically between ages five and twelve. You do not need to swim to contract the condition, as moisture from sweat during jogging or yardwork can cause it, though swimming increases the occurrence fivefold and tropical climates see higher rates due to humidity. Thomas Schrepfer and Rex Haberman, ear doctors at the University of Florida, explain that trapped moisture damages the skin barrier and lets bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa enter or overgrow. Main symptoms include severe pain, especially when pulling the outer ear or touching the small bump called the tragus. Other signs involve itchiness, redness, swelling, drainage, a plugged feeling, disturbed balance, and temporary hearing loss. Predisposing factors include a narrow canal, skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, ear plugs, hearing aids, and diabetes. Doctors diagnose the condition through an exam showing a red, swollen, and moist canal, sometimes testing fluid samples for bacteria. Treatment usually involves eardrops containing antibiotics and steroids, such as Ciprodex, which requires four to five drops in the ear twice daily for seven to ten days. Alternative drops include Floxin and Cortisporin, while severe swelling may require a wick or stent kept in place for three to five days. Oral antibiotics become necessary if the infection spreads or in poorly controlled diabetes, though hospitalization is rare. Prevention methods include keeping the ear canal dry using a towel or hair dryer, and applying a homemade tincture of half rubbing alcohol and half white vinegar to reduce pH and stop bacterial growth.

Context

External ear canal infections require proper medical evaluation to ensure the eardrum is safe and the correct type of eardrop is prescribed. Simple preventive drying techniques help people prone to moisture exposure avoid recurring discomfort. Understanding the difference between outer and middle ear infections ensures appropriate treatments are used for different types of ear pain.