Swimmers Ear Prevention Treatment

Otis externa, also known as swimmers ear is an infection of the ear canal. This is a cylindrical structure which extends from the external part of the ear to the ear drum. This condition is called swimmers simply because it is very common among swimmers. The skin that lines our ear canal, acts as a shield against infections from fungi and bacteria. This lining is slightly acidic in nature and thus protects the ear against any infection while also protecting it from excessive moisture. A break in this skin lining could lead to an infection, allowing fungi and bacteria to attack our outer ear. This shield could be broken and an infection caused in several ways: an increased level of moisture within the ear canal due to swimming or showering may tend to alter the acidic environment in one’s ear canal, allowing the invasion of fungi and bacteria. The use of hearing aids, ear plugs and any other device that could be inserted in one’s ear can raise the risk of this condition. Shampoos, hair dyes, bleaches and various other chemicals could lead to an irritation of the ear canal, altering its protective properties eventually leading to an infection.

Some of the symptoms of this condition are: redness of the ear and in some more serious cases the canal may shut due to swelling, an itching sensation within the ear, fever, skin on the ear is flaky, pain in the ear particularly when touched and at times a yellow, white or clear discharge from the ear. This condition can at times be very painful and medical treatment may be required. This is simply because pus, fluid and other kind of debris may need to be taken out by a physician. In general, any type of an inflammation or infection of the ear canal, could lead to this condition.

There are a lot of simple steps that one can take to prevent this condition such as applying oil prior to stepping in a pool. Avoid swimming in water that is dirty or polluted. Do not poke the ear with sharp objects or fingers. These preventive measures can help prevent swimmers ear. As far as treating this condition is concerned, there is no particular diet that has been recommended for swimmers ear. One can continue eating their regular diet as nothing, in respect of food, will reduce the symptoms of this condition. There are several home and medical remedies that will help deal with the problem externally.