Swimmer's ear, medically known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by bacteria or fungi. This condition typically arises from prolonged exposure to moisture in the ear, making it common among swimmers, hence the name. However, it can also occur due to excessive sweating, hot and humid environments, or trauma to the ear canal.
AFC Urgent Care Mt. Vernon understands the discomfort and pain associated with swimmer's ear and is here to help you prevent it with our guide on the causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention strategies for swimmer's ear.
Recognizing the Symptoms Of Swimmer’s Ear:
The most common symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:
- Ear pain: Swimmer's ear often causes intense pain, especially when the ear is touched or pulled.
- Itching and redness: The affected ear may become itchy, red, and swollen.
- Discharge: Pus-like or watery discharge with a foul odor may be present.
- Hearing difficulties: Inflammation and blockage in the ear canal can lead to temporary hearing loss or muffled sounds.
- Jaw or neck pain: Swimmer's ear can cause referred pain in the jaw or neck area.
Our Comprehensive Treatment Approach To Swimmer’s Ear:
At AFC Urgent Care Mt. Vernon, our skilled healthcare professionals provide a comprehensive range of services to diagnose and treat swimmer's ear effectively. Our treatment options include:
- Thorough examination: Our medical team will examine your ears, evaluate your symptoms, and review your medical history to make an accurate diagnosis.
- Ear cleaning: Gentle cleaning of the ear canal using specialized tools or a suction device helps remove debris and infected material.
- Medications: We offer prescription ear drops containing antibiotics or antifungal agents, tailored to your specific condition. These drops combat the infection and alleviate symptoms.
- Pain management: Our medical professionals may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to alleviate ear pain and reduce inflammation.
- Antibiotics: In severe or complicated cases, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection and prevent its spread.
How Can You Prevent Swimmer’s Ear This Summer?
AFC Urgent Care Mt. Vernon, highly suggests these strategies to avoid getting swimmer’s ear and from it ruining your summer fun at the pool or beach:
- Proper ear hygiene: Gently dry your ears after swimming or showering using a towel or a hairdryer on a low setting. Tilt your head to each side to facilitate drainage.
- Avoid foreign objects: Refrain from inserting cotton swabs, bobby pins, or any other objects into your ears, as they can damage the delicate skin and increase the risk of infection.
- Use earplugs: We recommend wearing earplugs while swimming or bathing to keep water out of the ear canal.
- Limit exposure to moisture: Minimize prolonged periods of swimming or diving in untreated water and avoid overly humid environments whenever possible.
AFC Urgent Care Mt. Vernon Can Help Treat Swimmer’s Ear
If you or a loved one is suffering from swimmer's ear, AFC Urgent Care Mt. Vernon is here to provide compassionate and effective care. Our experienced medical professionals will diagnose your condition, offer personalized treatment options, and provide preventive guidance to minimize the risk of recurrence. Open 7 days a week, we are here to help. Walk in weekdays from 8am-8pm, weekends from 8am-5pm, or check in online here.
We hope you enjoy the summer and we’re here for you when you need us. We now accept all state insurances!!