Health Tip: Prevent Swimmer's Ear

(HealthDay News) -- Swimmer's ear occurs when water builds up in the ear, causing an infection of the outer ear canal. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness and draining pus.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests how to help prevent swimmer's ear:

  • Keep water out of your ears while swimming by using ear plugs or a bathing cap.
  • Thoroughly dry your ears when you're finished swimming. Tilt your head in each direction, pull gently on your earlobe and pat dry with a towel.
  • Never insert anything (such as a finger or cotton swab) into the ear.
  • Use a blow-dryer on its lowest setting to completely dry your ears.
  • Don't try to remove any ear wax yourself. Seek the help of a physician.

    • Date Published: 06/16/2011

    Related Articles

    Search Articles

    FDA Panel to Again Weigh Merit of Decongestant That Many Call Useless

    FDA Panel to Again Weigh Merit of Decongestant That Many Call Useless

    Cooler Noses May Be Key to Winter's Spike in Colds

    Is Your Kid's Runny Nose Going on Forever? Here's What You Need to Know

    Many Parents Too Quick to Give Fever Meds to Kids: Poll

    Having Kids Around Might Shield You From Severe COVID: Study

    U.S. to Release Flu Meds From National Stockpile to Ease Shortages

    Flu, RSV, COVID: Shield Yourself From the 'Tripledemic' This Holiday

    Flu Boosts Short-Term Odds for Heart Attack 6-Fold

    Another Reason to Get the Flu Shot: Lowered Risk for Stroke

    How Worried Should the World Be About Bird Flu in Humans?