Learn About
Swimmers Ear
by Sharon Hopkins
It is an infection which affects the outer
ear canal. The
technical term for swimmers ear is known as otitis externa. It
is a very common problem among children. As it mainly affects
swimmers it is known as the swimmers ear. But it is not only
restricted to swimmers. People having bath or are in shower may
also be get affected by this infection.
It is caused when water gets accumulated
in the ear canal and
leads to an infection. This infection causes swelling, redness,
heat and pain. Infection leads to formation of pus which oozes
out from the ear. There can be itchiness so any slight movement
or touching of the ear can cause lot of pain. The infection is
induced due to a germ called Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is
commonly found in soil and water.
Polluted water is the major cause of this trouble. Swimming in
polluted lakes and rivers can be very hazardous. If your
children are swimming in an enclosed pool environment you still
cannot be sure about the cleanliness of the water. Even when
water is chlorinated you may not escape the bacteria.
Bacteria grows when the water get accumulated in the ear canal.
It washes away the protective earwax coating leading to an
infection. The moistness of the ear may lead to vulnerability
of ear and become prone to an infection. Fungal infection and
constant diving are some of the causes for this infection.
Once detected you should avoid getting into the water. Allow
time to heal your wounds before you jump back in. Wear shower
caps when in shower to restrict water from getting into your
ears. You can wear ear plugs or cotton balls to prevent water
from entering your ears. Avoid fidgeting your ears with cotton
swabs or any pointed objects.
Your doctor will treat this problem by
prescribing some ear
drops. Due to the immense pain he may even prescribe pain
killers. These antibiotics drops may help to clear the problem.
By taking some precautionary measures you can avoid this problem
too. Always keep your ears dry. If any amount of water gets into
your ears remove by using an alcohol-based product. Avoid
swimming in polluted areas.
There are
some common symptoms which can help you detect
swimmers ear. Your ear becomes very sensitive and gives you the
feeling of being choked. You may suffer from fever and hearing
gets deteriorated. The pain in the ear may spread through the
neck, face or part of your face.
Home Remedies
The mixture of alcohol and white vinegar should be used in 1:1
proportion. A few drops of this mixture would evaporate all the
moisture from your ear.
Use a hairdryer by keeping it in the warm setting using it over
your ear to dry it.
Warning: The reader of this article should
exercise all
precautionary measures while following instructions on the home
remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if
you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader
and not with the site or the writer.
About The Author: Sharon Hopkins handles many websites relating
to natural home remedies such as
http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com, which has lot of
information on home based natural cures and remedies. Swimmers
Ear affects many children and without proper care it can get
very severe.
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