Swimming: Why do I have ear pain?

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Ear pain that arises after swimming usually indicates swimmer’s ear. This infection develops if bacteria from the water enters the ear canal and might arise several days after swimming.

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The condition can affect individuals of all ages but common among children. Swimmer’s ear is treated with antibiotics. If an ear infection is suspected or ear pain occurs after swimming, consult a doctor.

Close look on swimmer’s ear

Swimmer’s ear is due to the pressure and possibly a lesion within the ear canal. The infection is usually caused by pseudomonas aeruginosa which is a common bacteria present in both water and soil.

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The doctor might recommend an over-the-counter pain medication. Instruct the individual to avoid scratching the interior of the ear canal since this can spread the infection.

Once water is trapped within the canal, the bacteria thrives over time. This is one reason ear pain might arise days after swimming. The indications of the infection include itchiness within the ear, pain, inflammation outside the ear and sensation of fullness as well as diminished hearing.

How to deal with ear pain from swimmer’s ear

The management of swimmer’s ear generally includes antibiotic drops for 7-10 days. The application of a heating pad at a low setting is recommended on the outside to lessen the discomfort.

The doctor might recommend an over-the-counter pain medication. Instruct the individual to avoid scratching the interior of the ear canal since this can spread the infection.

Make sure that the ear is kept dry and avoid swimming until the infection settles. When taking a bath, soak the cotton ball in petroleum jelly and position it on the canal opening. Avoid driving the cotton within since the petroleum jelly sticks to the skin.

Prevention

The individual should tip the head sideways when out of the swimming pool. This helps the water drain from the canal.

A hair dryer can be used in the lowest setting to dry the ear. Simply position the dryer several inches from the ear.

You can also apply a few drops of an over-the-counter ear product that includes alcohol. If the individual is susceptible to swimmer’s ear, use ear plugs to prevent water from entering the ear while swimming or bathing.

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