Otitis externa symptoms

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, 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. Dry ears after they get wet using a hair dryer on the cool setting.

How Is Swimmer's Ear Treated?

Treatment depends on how severe the infection is and how painful it is.

Otitis externa treatment

A health care provider might prescribe ear drops that contain antibiotics to fight the infection, possibly mixed with a medicine to reduce swelling of the ear canal. Ear drops are usually given several times a day for 7–10 days.

If a swollen ear canal makes it hard to put in the drops, the doctor may insert a tiny sponge called a wick to help carry the medicine inside the ear.

In some cases, the docto

treating otitis externa in children

treatment of otitis externa