Bacterial infection can affect any part of the human body, as long as there is a perfect environment to harbour their growth. This article is geared towards bacterial infections in the ear.
Otitis externa, popularly known as swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal. It derived the name “swimmer’s ear” because the main method of infection is by germs found in swimming pools.
This occurs when water stays in the ear canal for long periods of time, creating a conducive environment for the growth of bacteria.
What are the symptoms of swimmer’s ear?
Usually, symptoms of this condition start off as mild but worsen if the infection spreads. The symptoms may include:
1. Discomfort or pain
2. Redness inside ear
3. Excessive itching of the ear
4. Fluid drainage from the ear
5. Fullness feeling inside of ear
6. Decreased or muffled hearing
Who is at risk for swimmer’s ear?
One is at risk for swimmer’s ear if he or she :
1. swims
2. aggressively cleans the ear canal with cotton swabs or other objects
3. uses certain device such as ear buds or hearing aid
4. has a skin condition such as eczema
Prevention
Follow these tips to avoid swimmer’s ear:
1. swim wisely and avoid areas with high bacteria
2. protect the ears from irritants such as perfumes
3. keep the ears dry at all times
4. avoid scratching the inside of the ear. This irritates the thin skin inside the ear
5. Use cotton ball with Vaseline on the outside to plug the ears when swimming
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/swimmers-ear/symptoms-causes/syc-20351682
