Dear Dr. Lindeman,
My son is complaining his ear itchy and feel plugged. He has been spending a lot of time in the swimming pool - could it be related?
It certainly could be. Your son is displaying symptoms of "Swimmer's Ear" an infection of the skin lining the ear canal. It is caused by water getting trapped in the ear and softening up the skin. Damp skin in the ear lining is more likely to become infected with bacteria.
Symptoms include itchy, painful ear canals, or the feeling that the ears are plugged up.
When the doctor makes the diagnosis, your child will be given ear drops that should make the ear feel better within 3 days.
Home Treatment
- Vinegar and Alcohol: For mild swimmer's ear mix equal parts of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Fill the canal with this mixture and let sit 5 minutes. Then remove by tilting head to the side. Repeat twice per day.
- Pain: Use Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil).
Prevention
- Limit hours spent in the water! After swimming, rinse ears with the vinegar and alcohol solution.
- Don't use ear plugs! They do not keep all water out, and they tend to jam ear wax deeper into canals.
Call us immediately at 508-655-9699 if
- Your child begins acting very sick
- The pain becomes quite severe
Call during call-hour at 508-655-9699 if
- The pain is not gone after 3 days
- Your child develops fever
- You have other questions or concern
Lincoln Medical Building
61 Lincoln Street, Suite 210
Framingham, MA 01702
(508) 655-9699
(508) 655-2984 fax
Updated: 10/30/02
