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Swimmers ear, also known as otitis externa is Inflammation of the
canal between the Eardrum and the external opening of the Ear. .
What to look for
itching inside the ear.
watery discharge from the ear.
severe pain and tenderness in the ear,
especially when moving your head or when gently pulling on your earlobe.
a foul-smelling, yellowish discharge from
the ear.
temporarily muffled hearing (caused by
blockage of the ear canal).
This is a very common problem that afflicts
the outer ear. Otherwise known as otitis externa, an inflammation occurs in the outer ear
canal. The inflammation can often lead to an infection. It can often occur in swimmers but
it can also afflict non-swimmers.
Causes
Too much moisture inside the ear can cause
this complaint. This can occur through normal showering or swimming. The moisture causes
an eczema in the ear which can be quite sore and itchy. If the
skin tears or breaks, bacteria can get in and cause infection.
Traditional Treatment
This condition is not usually serious and
it may just clear up on its own or you can try to relieve the problem with alternative
solutions. If the condition does not improve in a day or two, see your doctor for more
aggressive treatments.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Aromatherapy - To
increase blood circulation to the area and help healing, gently massage the area around
the outer ear with an oil made from 3 to 5 drops of either
eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) or lavender (Lavandula officinalis) diluted in 1 tsp
olive or other vegetable oil. Rub the oil into the temples and neck and on the earlobe. To
increase blood circulation to the area and help healing, gently massage the area around
the outer ear with an oil made from 3 to 5 drops of either eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) or lavender (Lavandula officinalis) diluted in 1 tsp
olive or other vegetable oil. Rub the oil into the temples and neck and on the earlobe.
Herbal Therapies - Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) oil may help soothe and heal
an inflamed ear canal. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) oil may help soothe and heal
an inflamed ear canal.
Another useful herb for swimmer's ear is garlic (Allium sativum). Combine equal parts garlic juice,
glycerin, and a carrier oil, such as olive or sweet almond; put 1 to 3 drops in the
infected ear every three hours.
Personal Care
Make sure you keep the infected ear dry -
wear a shower cap or use ear plugs.
To relieve pain, place a warm heating pad
or compress on the infected ear.
Prevention
Do not clean your ears too thoroughly,
the ear needs some wax for protection.
Wear earplugs when swimming.
Avoid swimming in dirty or polluted
water.
Try to avoid water getting into your ears
while showering.
When to seek further
professional advice
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