Preventing Swimmer’s Ear

Spring is in the air, meaning Spring Break trips are around the corner. It’s common for children (and sometimes adults) to return from Spring Break with ear pain. This isn’t limited to Spring Break, of course! Any time you spend a lot of time in and out of the water, there is a risk of developing external otitis, also known as “swimmer's ear.” This is an infection of the outer ear canal often caused by water exposure. The good news is that you can prevent it, and here is how:

1. Keep your ears dry: Use earplugs or a swim cap when swimming. After swimming or bathing, dry your ears thoroughly with a towel. You can also use a hair dryer on the lowest setting, held at least a foot away from the ear, to help dry the ear canal.[1][2]

2. Avoid inserting objects into your ears: Do not use cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects to clean your ears. These can cause trauma to the ear canal and increase the risk of infection.[1][3]

3. Use preventive ear drops: If you are prone to otitis externa, consider using over-the-counter acetic acid ear drops before and after swimming to help maintain the ear's natural acidic environment, which can prevent bacterial growth.[3]

4. Protect your ears from water: Insert earplugs or cotton balls coated with petroleum jelly into your ears before showering or swimming to prevent water from entering the ear canal.[1]

5. Avoid swimming in polluted water: Swimming in water with high bacterial counts can increase the risk of infection. Choose swimming pools that are well-maintained and have proper chlorine levels.[2]

6. Maintain ear hygiene: Regularly clean the outer ear with a washcloth, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal. If you have excessive earwax, consult a healthcare provider for safe removal.[1][3]

7. Monitor for symptoms: If you experience ear pain, itching, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment can prevent the infection from worsening.[1]

   By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of developing swimmer's ear and enjoy water activities safely.

References

1. Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Externa. Rosenfeld RM, Schwartz SR, Cannon CR, et al. Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery : Official Journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. 2014;150(1 Suppl):S1-S24. doi:10.1177/0194599813517083.

2. Estimated Burden of Acute Otitis Externa--United States, 2003-2007. MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. 2011;60(19):605-9.

3. Otitis Externa: A Practical Guide to Treatment and Prevention. Sander R. American Family Physician. 2001;63(5):927-36, 941-2.