INFORMATION ON SWIMMER’S EAR:-

Swimmer's ear may be defined as inflammation, irritation, or infection of the outer ear and ear canal.. Swimming in polluted water is one of the reason for the development of swimmer's ear. Swimmer's ear is common, especially among teenagers and young adults.

CAUSES OF SWIMMER’S EAR:-

Swimmer’s ear can be caused by scratching ear or by an object stuck in ear. Moisture in the ear makes the ear susceptible to infection from water-loving bacteria such as Pseudomonas. Other bacteria, fungus, can also cause infection.

SYMPTOMS OF SWIMMER’S EAR:-

1. Ear pain
2. Itching of the ear or ear canal
3. drinage of yellow-green, pus-like, foul smelling liquid.

DIAGNOSIS OF SWIMMER’S EAR:-

When the doctor looks in the ear, it appears red and swollen, including the ear canal. The ear canal may appear eczema-like, with scaly shedding of skin. Touching or moving the outer ear increases the pain. The eardrum may be difficult for the doctor to see with an otoscope because of the swollen outer canal. Taking some of the ear's drainage and doing a culture on it may identify bacteria or fungus.

TREATMENT OF SWIMMER’S EAR:-

The goal of treatment is to cure the infection. The ear canal should be cleaned of drainage to allow topical medications to work effectively.

Effective medications include ear drops containing antibiotics to fight infection, and corticosteroids to reduce itching and inflammation. Ear drops should be used abundantly (four or five drops at a time) in order to penetrate the end of the ear canal. If the ear canal is very swollen, a wick may be applied in the ear to allow the drops to travel to the end of the canal.

Occasionally, pills may be used in addition to the topical medications. Analgesics may be used if pain is severe. Putting something warm against the ears may reduce pain.