7 Home Remedies For Swimmer's Ear

Experiencing water trapped in your ear following a refreshing swim or a leisurely bath can be rather vexing. To alleviate this discomfort, people employ various methods and sometimes resort to using cotton swabs to extract the water. Despite their efforts to remove the water, there often remains a small residue, which can potentially lead to the development of a condition known as swimmer's ear. What exactly is swimmer's ear, and how can it be treated? Continue reading this article to gain insight into home remedies for swimmer's ear.

Medically termed Otitis Externa (OE), swimmer's ear is a bacterial infection resulting from water accumulation in the ear after aquatic activities. This condition is particularly prevalent during the summer months and in regions characterized by warm, tropical climates. The severity of OE can be categorized into acute and chronic forms. Acute OE typically lasts for a period ranging from 1 to 6 weeks, while chronic OE can persist for over 3 months.

Normally, your inner ear canal is protected by minuscule hair follicles and earwax, which create an acidic environment that deters the intrusion of bacteria. However, in the case of swimmer's ear, bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus gain access to the ear canal, leading to infection. This, in turn, triggers inflammation, disrupts the pH balance, and results in a reduction of earwax within the ear canal.

It's not uncommon for people to confuse swimmer's ear with a typical ear infection. A regular ear infection, known as otitis media, occurs as a result of an infection in the middle ear. In contrast, swimmer's ear arises from an infection in the external auditory canal.

# Drain As Much Water As Possible

The initial and paramount step is to eliminate the trapped water in your ears. Several methods can be employed for this purpose:

- Attempt gently wiggling your earlobes while tilting your head downward.

- Another method involves lying on your side for a brief period, with a towel beneath your ear to absorb any draining water.

- You can also generate a vacuum effect by covering your ears with your hands and briskly moving your head both up and down and side to side.

# Keep Your Ears Dry

This serves as a proficient strategy for averting swimmer's ear. To a certain extent, you can maintain the dryness of your ear canals by acquiring swimmer's earplugs designed to thwart the ingress of water into your ears. These earplugs are available in various configurations and dimensions. It's advisable to opt for slightly pricier earplugs, as they offer superior reliability and enhanced protection compared to their more economical counterparts.

# Try Rubbing Alcohol And Vinegar

A homemade remedy for swimmer's ear can be crafted by blending rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) and vinegar. Studies indicate that this blend is efficacious in addressing bacterial ear infections. To concoct these ear drops, follow these steps:

- Combine isopropyl alcohol and vinegar in equal proportions.

- Employ a pipet or dropper to administer 2-3 drops into your ear.

- Gently massage the exterior and rear portions of your ears.

- Allow 30-45 seconds to elapse, then tilt your head to the side to facilitate the drainage of the drops.

# Try Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Utilizing hydrogen peroxide drops to address swimmer's ear can aid in the removal of debris and excessive earwax that may be trapping water. Research indicates that the topical application of a hydrogen peroxide solution can assist in softening earwax and any crust formations within the ear canal. If you're concerned about the safety of using hydrogen peroxide in your ears, there's no need for worry. Doctors frequently prescribe hydrogen peroxide drops, often in the form of oxydol, for treating ear infections in infants.

However, refrain from employing hydrogen peroxide solution for ear cleaning in the following circumstances:

- If you have cuts or any other physical injuries in your ears.

- When your ear is inflamed or experiencing bleeding.

- In cases of a ruptured eardrum.

# Use A Warm Compress

Applying heat can be beneficial in alleviating the discomfort and inflammation connected with swimmer's ear. Soak a washcloth in lukewarm water and gently place it over the affected ear. Alternatively, you can encase a hot water bottle with a cloth and hold it against the infected ear for a brief period. Repeat this procedure multiple times throughout the day until you start to feel relief.

# Try Using Garlic And Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Studies indicate that garlic-infused extra virgin olive oil can serve as an alternative remedy for ear infections. This oil boasts antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which can contribute to the reduction of infections. You can acquire this oil from a local grocery store or through an online retailer. To employ this method, follow these steps:

- Warm up a teaspoon of garlic-infused extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl.

- Apply a few drops of the oil to the underside of your wrist to check the temperature; it should feel comfortably lukewarm on your skin.

- Using a sterile dropper, gently administer a few drops into the affected ear.

- Subsequently, recline on your opposite side for 10-15 minutes, allowing the oil to take effect.

- After the designated time, assume an upright position and tilt your head downward to facilitate the draining of the oil and any residual water.

# Try OTC Medication

A variety of over-the-counter (OTC) medications designed for ear infections and ear discomfort are readily accessible. Many of these are alcohol-based and are designed to assist in the elimination of water or excess wax. Nonetheless, it is advisable to consult your physician before attempting self-medication.

If you do not observe any improvement in your symptoms after experimenting with these home remedies or if your condition deteriorates, it is imperative to seek medical assistance.