Swimmer’s ear (or external otitis or outer ear infection) is an inflammation and infection of the outer ear canal. It is different from otitis media in that it does not typically extend to the eardrum and is not usually associated with fever or other cold symptoms. However, like a middle ear infection, it can be extremely painful and your child may have pain when you touch the outer ear. But not all outer ear infections are caused by swimming. Here’s what you should know:
What increases your child’s chances of getting external otitis?
There are two main risk factors associated with external otitis: change in pH balance of the canal or trauma to the canal. Let’s start with the first, because this is where swimming pools come in to the discussion. Highly chlorinated pools can change the normal pH balance of the canal and break down its natural defenses. Humid environments can also change the pH balance of the canal and make it more susceptible to infection.
Trauma to the canal by way of cotton swabs or bobby pins, which remove wax or scratch the canal, can predispose it to infection. Just scratching with a fingernail can cause enough damage to create the right environment for infection. Wax actually creates a protective environment for the canal and should not be removed except when necessary by a doctor. Some skin conditions, such as eczema, can also alter the delicate environment inside the ear canal.
What does not increase your child’s chances for getting external otitis?
Occasionally, tap water will get in your child’s ear via the bath or shower. This should not cause concern for developing outer ear infection.
How can I prevent external otitis in my child?
- Avoid using any kind of instrument to remove ear wax. Washing the outside of the ear (the part you can see) is sufficient for keeping your child’s ears clean.
- Use a few drops of a mixture of half plain white vinegar and half alcohol in your child’s ear after swimming to normalize the pH balance and kill bacteria. (Do not use this if your child has pressure-equalization tubes in her eardrums.)
How is external otitis treated?
Your doctor will prescribe ear drops to treat the infection and soothe the inflammation in the canal. Remember these tips when using ear drops:
- Tilt your child’s head with the infected ear up while instilling the drops.
- Keep your child’s head in this position for several minutes to ensure proper distribution of the drops.
