Can Swimmer's Ear Be Prevented?
Using over-the-counter drops of a dilute solution of acetic acid or alcohol in
the ears after swimming can help prevent swimmer's ear, especially in kids who get
it a lot. These drops are available without a prescription at drugstores, but should
not be used in kids who have ear
tubes or a hole in the eardrum.
To avoid injuring an ear, young kids should not clean their ears themselves. Also,
never put objects into kids' ears, including cotton-tipped swabs.
How Is Swimmer's Ear Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and how painful it is. A health
care provider might prescribe ear drops that contain antibiotics
to fight the infection, possibly mixed with a steroid to reduce swelling of the ear
canal. Ear drops are usually given several times a day for 7 to 10 days.
If swelling of the ear canal makes it hard to put in the drops, the doctor may
insert a wick into the canal to help carry the medicine inside the ear. In some cases,
the doctor may need to remove pus and other buildup from the ear with gentle cleaning
or suction. This lets the ear drops work better.
For more severe infections, oral antibiotics might be prescribed, and the health
care provider might want to run tests on discharge from the ear to find which bacteria
or fungi are causing the problem.
Over-the-counter pain relievers often can manage ear pain, but a prescription pain
medicine may be needed if it's severe. Once treatment starts, your child will start
to feel better in a day or two. Swimmer's ear is usually cured within 7 to 10 days
of starting treatment.
How Can I Help My Child Feel Better?
Ear infections should be treated by a doctor. If not, the ear pain will get worse
and the infection may spread. At home, acetaminophen
or ibuprofen may
ease discomfort.
Follow the health care provider's instructions for using ear drops and oral antibiotics,
if they are prescribed. It's important to keep water out of your child's ear during
the entire course of treatment. You can use a cotton ball as an earplug to protect
your child's ear from water during showering or bathing.
When Should I Call the Doctor?
Call your doctor immediately if your child has any pain in the ear with or without
fever, decreased hearing in one or both ears, or abnormal discharge from the ear.
Date reviewed: March 2016