Home Health : Swimmer’s Ear
Swimming isn’t the only cause of swimmer’s ear. In fact, the condition can develop after showering, scratching the ear or putting objects such as cotton swabs, ear plugs or hearing aids in the ear. So how do you tell the difference between swimmer’s ear and an ear infection? Typically common middle ear infections don’t cause pain in the outer ear. With swimmer’s ear, it usually hurts to wiggle your ear or put your finger in it. Other symptoms include: Itching in the ear canal, redness and swelling, pus drainage or muffled hearing. To help prevent swimmer’s ear, try alcohol or boric acid ear drops after swimming or sweating. Also, after exposure to water, be sure to dry your ears with a towel or even a hair dryer set on low, held about a foot away. If symptoms persist, you should see your doctor. For more information call Referral One at 625.2000 or visit stj.com.
When it matters most, think St. John’s.
