Swimming is a fairly complete sport that does wonders for our physical and mental state. This does not prevent poor body care from leading to injuries or discomfort, such as the famous "swimmer's ear" or acute external otitis. Anyone who has suffered from it knows the uncomfortable sensation that this inflammation produces, so we are going to give you advice to avoid its appearance and how to treat it, in case you have it.
What is swimmer's ear?
Acute otitis is a inflammation, irritation or infection of the ear area and its ear canal. In the case of "swimmer's ear", we consider it acute external. Its appearance is due to constant contact with the ear with chlorinated water. This water removes the wax that forms naturally and favors the bacteria dry and scale the skin. Likewise, the water that remains in our ear after swimming favors the creation of a Humid climate in which bacteria are born.
Infection can also occur from using certain shampoos and that these enter our ear canal. In addition, scratching the ear, the Cotton swabs and other types of objects that we introduce damage our skin that lines the ear cavity.
What are the symptoms?
If you think you may have otitis, pay attention to your body's warning signs and identify your infection. Symptoms appear in the acute phase (48 hours since the initial infection) and can reach last about 6 weeks if not treated. You may come across:
- Foul-smelling, yellowish discharge or watery discharge.
- Hearing loss and problems.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
- Ear canal pain and swelling.
- Irritation inside the ear that usually causes itching.
- Buzz inside.
- Eruption on the eardrum.
- ear redness
It can be avoided?
Of course it can be avoided, despite practicing swimming. The important is keep the inside of the ear dry to avoid infection. Take note of these tips because they will solve you having to abandon training until your healing is complete.
- When you get out of the pool, tilt your head to the sides to remove all water from the ears. Pull slightly on your lobes to straighten the ear canal and encourage all the water to come out.
- dry your ears after swimming and showering.
- If even after using the towel to dry them, you still have a feeling of humidity, use the hair dryeror at low speed. Keep it at a decent distance so you don't cause hearing damage.
- If you swim a lot and several times a week, opt for use earplugs. Go to the autologist to design some custom ones for you. In addition, the swimming cap will also help you prevent water from getting into your ears.
- As we mentioned before, don't put anything inside. No swabs, fingers or any other object that can tear and create infections.
- La natural wax It is good for protecting the ear against bacteria. Don't be obsessed with over-cleaning unless you have a buildup problem. In that case, see your doctor for advice.
What can I do if I already have swimmer's ear?
The first thing you should do is go to your doctor to diagnose the degree of infection and inflammation. Usually, you will be given antibiotic ear drops during 10-14 days.
They may be able to refer you to other treatments, depending on whether it has affected more than just the ear. For example:
- Oral antibiotics, if the infection has spread to or beyond the middle ear.
- Corticosteroids to reduce itching and inflammation.
- Pain relievers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Something that will also help you reduce pain is to put warm cloths In the ear. In the same way, go to your doctor to clean the ear canal and make an assessment of the secretions.