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Swimmer's Ear
Alternate Names : Ear Infection - Outer Ear - Acute, Otitis Externa - Acute
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Swimmer's Ear Treatment
The goal of treatment is to cure the infection. The ear canal should be cleaned of drainage to allow topical medications to work effectively.
Effective medications include ear drops containing antibiotics to fight infection, and corticosteroids to reduce itching and inflammation. Ear drops should be used abundantly (four or five drops at a time) in order to penetrate the end of the ear canal. If the ear canal is very swollen, a wick may be applied in the ear to allow the drops to travel to the end of the canal.
Occasionally, pills may be used in addition to the topical medications. Analgesics may be used if pain is severe. Putting something warm against the ears may reduce pain.
Protect ears from further damage. Do not scratch the ears or insert cotton swabs or other objects in the ears. Keep ears clean and dry, and do not let water enter the ears when showering, shampooing, or bathing.
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• Definition
• Swimmer's Ear Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Swimmer's Ear Symptoms & Signs
• Swimmer's Ear Prevention
• Swimmer's Ear Diagnosis & Tests
• Swimmer's Ear Treatment
• Swimmer's Ear Prognosis
• Swimmer's Ear Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Common Cold
• Ear Infection - Acute
• Malignant Otitis Externa
• Swimmer's Ear - Chronic
Other Topics
• Earache
• Fever
• Pain Medications
Review Date : 8/27/2003
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. editorial. Previously reviewed by Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network(8/17/2001).
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