Swimmer\u2019s ear is a bacterial infection that affects the outermost portion of the ear canal. A common cause is the accumulation of water in this portion of the canal that leads to a bacterial infection. It can also be caused by the insertion of unclean foreign objects into the ear that irritate the lining of the ear canal.
\nSigns and symptoms of swimmer\u2019s ear are:
\n\u2022 Redness in the ear canal
\n\u2022 Itchiness in the ear
\n\u2022 Fluid discharge which may include pus
\n\u2022 Muffled hearing
\n\u2022 Sensation of fullness in the ear
\n\u2022 Fever if the infection is severe
\nA few factors that can make a person more susceptible to swimmer\u2019s ear are:
\n\u2022 Swimming in water that isn\u2019t clean
\n\u2022 Having a narrow ear canal
\n\u2022 Abrasion of the ear canal by improper use of a cotton swab
\n\u2022 Reduced production or improper removal of ear wax
\nIt is important to treat swimmer\u2019s ear as soon as possible in order to prevent serious complications such as hearing loss. Depending on the severity of the problem, treatment options are ear drops containing antibiotics,\u00a0 steroid, and a mild acidic solution.\u00a0 Have your physician evaluate the problem as soon as possible. If you would like to make an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-670-5486.<\/p>\n
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Swimmer\u2019s ear is a bacterial infection that affects the outermost portion of the ear canal. A common cause is the accumulation of water in this portion of the canal that leads to a bacterial infection. It can also be caused … Continue reading