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Swimmer's Ear (Otitis Externa)

Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal caused by water-dwelling bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa entering the ear. Common symptoms include itching, pain, redness and discharge from the ear. The infection is spread by contaminated water entering the ear canal. It can be prevented by thoroughly drying the ear after swimming, using over-the-counter ear drops to disinfect the ear canal, checking with pools about chlorine levels, and avoiding inserting objects in the ear. Treatment involves using prescription antibiotic ear drops.

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Jeffly Varro Gilbert
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101 views1 page

Swimmer's Ear (Otitis Externa)

Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal caused by water-dwelling bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa entering the ear. Common symptoms include itching, pain, redness and discharge from the ear. The infection is spread by contaminated water entering the ear canal. It can be prevented by thoroughly drying the ear after swimming, using over-the-counter ear drops to disinfect the ear canal, checking with pools about chlorine levels, and avoiding inserting objects in the ear. Treatment involves using prescription antibiotic ear drops.

Uploaded by

Jeffly Varro Gilbert
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Swimmers Ear (Otitis Externa)

What is Swimmers Ear? alcohol-based ear product into the ear. Ask a
pharmacist at your local drugstore for this
Swimmers Ear (ear ache) is an infection of the ear
product.
and/or outer ear canal. It can cause the ear to itch or
become red and inflamed so that head movement or 2. Ask your pool manager about the chlorine and
touching of the ear is very painful. Pus may also pH testing program at your pool. Pools and hot
drain from the ear. tubs with good chlorine and pH control are
unlikely to spread Swimmers Ear.
What causes Swimmers Ear?
Swimmers Ear is often caused by infection with a 3. Pay attention to signage and avoid swimming in
germ called Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This germ is locations that have been closed because of
common in the environment (soil, water) and is pollution.
microscopic so that it cant be seen with the naked 4. Avoid putting objects in the ear (e.g. fingers,
eye. Although all age groups are affected by cotton swabs) that may scratch the ear canal and
Swimmers Ear, it is more common in children and provide a site for infection.
young adults.
If you think you have Swimmers Ear, consult your
How is Swimmers Ear spread? healthcare provider. Swimmers Ear can be treated
Having contaminated water get in the ear can give with antibiotic ear drops.
people Swimmers Ear. It usually occurs within a few This fact sheet was based on the Centers for Disease
days of getting contaminated water or placing Control and Preventions (CDC) Healthy Swimming
contaminated objects in the ear. Fact Sheets for Swimmers.
Is there a difference between a childhood
middle ear infection and Swimmer's Ear?
Yes. Swimmers Ear is not the same as the common
childhood middle ear infection. If you can wiggle the
outer ear without pain or discomfort, then your ear 625 Shadow Lane P.O. Box 3902
infection is probably not Swimmers Ear. Las Vegas, NV 89127
(702) 759-1000 www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org
Can Swimmer's Ear be prevented?
Yes. Here are four healthy swimming tips for
protection against Swimmers Ear:
1. Dry your ears after swimming. If it is difficult to
get water out of your ear, apply a few drops of an

06-2006

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