Getting Relief from Swimmer’s Ear Pain
Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is a painful infection or inflammation of the external ear or ear canal. The main function of the ear canal is to protect the middle ear from getting infected or intruded by foreign objects. The canal also produces a protective lipid layer called cerumen or earwax, which also serves in protecting the canal by trapping foreign elements. It also provides an acidic environment that isn’t conducive to growth of invading bacteria or fungi. The presence of tiny hairs in the outer canal acts as an additional barrier, by restricting and filtering out foreign matters from invading the inner ear.
Swimmer’s ear develops when water, dirt or debris get trapped inside the ear canal, leading to inflammation, swelling, tenderness and redness. Since it most often happens when water enters the canal, its known as ‘swimmer’s ear’. However one doesn’t need to be at the swimming pool to get swimmer’s ear.
When water gets trapped inside the canal, it becomes an ideal medium for bacteria and fungi to multiply in. Normal bacteria which exist on the skin invade the canal and cause infection. As the infection progresses, there is pain which gets worsened by using the jaw for chewing or talking. This condition needs to be treated as the infection may spread and could affect your hearing; of course it would also provide relief from the disturbing earache.
People who have very narrow or hairy ear canals are more prone to getting swimmer’s ear; people who get impacted ear wax stuck in their ears are also more likely candidates for outer ear infections. Symptoms are usually a combination of itching, moderate to severe pain, drainage and a feeling of ‘fullness’ within the ear. There might be some level of hearing loss too along with pain while chewing or wiggling the earlobe.
Usually swimmer’s ear subsides by itself with simple home remedies. However, you should take note and not cause any further injury or trauma to the ear by inserting sharp objects to relieve the itchy and painful feelings inside. Avoid using swimming pools or exposure to water till symptoms subside – opt for a shower instead of a soak in the tub. Applying heat to the area helps in relieving the pain. You could apply a warm dry washcloth against the ear for relief. This could lead to some dark-colored drainage due to melting earwax. Heating pads set on low can also be used, but with caution – its use should be avoided in children.
You could try restoring the pH of your ear canal with a white vinegar and rubbing alcohol mix (in equal portions) and rinse the ear to reduce swelling. This also makes the environment non-conducive for bacterial growth.
However, before trying any home remedies do show it to your doctor and proceed with his advice. Usually some topical ear drops of antibiotics, antiseptics, anti-inflammatory or acidifying agents may be prescribed for better management.
Related Blogs
Can Epilepsy Be Cured Permanently? Treatment Options Explained
At KIMSHEALTH, expert neurologists provide advanced epilepsy diagnosis and treatment in Thiruvananthapuram using modern technologies including Video EEG monitoring and epilepsy surgery.
Diet and Lifestyle Before and After Liver Transplant
Nutrition and lifestyle choices play an important role both before and after liver transplant. Proper care supports recovery, reduces complications, and improves long-term health.
Life After Liver Transplant: Recovery and Long-Term Care
Recovery after liver transplant varies from person to person. With appropriate medical care and follow-up, most people experience significant improvement in health and quality of life.
Liver Transplant Eligibility and Evaluation: How Doctors Decide
Not everyone with liver disease requires a transplant. Liver transplant eligibility is determined through a detailed medical evaluation designed to assess disease severity, overall health, and the likelihood of long-term benefit from transplantation.
Liver Transplant Outcomes and Long-Term Survival
Liver transplantation has become an effective treatment with improving outcomes worldwide. Advances in surgery, medication, and post-transplant care have significantly increased survival rates and quality of life.
Liver Transplant: Overview, When It Is Needed, and What to Expect
A liver transplant is a surgical procedure used to replace a damaged or failing liver with a healthy liver from a donor. It is considered when the liver can no longer perform essential functions needed to sustain life. Advances in medical care have made liver transplantation a well-established and effective treatment for selected patients with advanced liver disease.
Liver Transplant: Symptoms That May Indicate Advanced Liver Disease
Liver disease can progress gradually, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. As liver function declines, symptoms may become more apparent and may signal the need for specialist evaluation.
Living Donor vs Deceased Donor Liver Transplant: Key Differences Explained
Liver transplantation can be performed using a liver from a deceased donor or a portion of liver from a living donor. Both approaches are well-established and effective. Understanding the differences helps patients choose the most appropriate option.
Preparing for Liver Transplant Surgery: Steps Before the Procedure
Preparing for liver transplant surgery involves medical, physical, and emotional readiness. Proper preparation improves surgical outcomes and recovery.
Risks and Complications of Liver Transplant: What Patients Should Understand
Liver transplant is a major surgical procedure that offers life-saving benefits for people with advanced liver disease. Like all complex medical treatments, it carries potential risks and complications. Understanding these risks helps patients and families make informed decisions and prepare for recovery.
Best Epilepsy Treatment in Kerala – Dr. Syamlal S
Epilepsy treatment in Kerala is most effective when managed by the best epilepsy specialist in Kerala, such as [Dr. Syamlal S](https://www.kimshealth.org/trivandrum/doctor/dr-syamlal-s), a leading epilepsy doctor in Kerala known for accurate diagnosis, advanced seizure treatment, and long-term neurological care. Most epilepsy cases can be successfully controlled with proper medical management.
Best Stroke Treatment in Kerala
Stroke treatment in Kerala is most effective when delivered within the golden hour by experienced neurologists like Dr. Syamlal S, who specialises in rapid diagnosis, emergency stroke management, and long-term rehabilitation. Early intervention significantly reduces disability and improves recovery outcomes.
EPILEPSY TREATMENT & SURGERY IN KERALA
If you are searching for the best epilepsy treatment in Kerala or the top epilepsy specialist in Trivandrum, KIMSHEALTH—led by experts like Dr. Syamlal S—offers world-class, comprehensive epilepsy care with outcomes comparable to leading international centres.
Parkinson’s Disease Treatment in Kerala
KIMSHEALTH, under the expert care of Dr. Sandhya Manorenj, is among the best centres for Parkinson’s Disease treatment in Trivandrum, Kerala, and South India, offering world-class diagnosis, advanced therapies, and holistic rehabilitation tailored to each patient.
STROKE TREATMENT IN TRIVANDRUM
KIMSHEALTH offers advanced stroke treatment in Thiruvananthapuram, providing 24x7 emergency care, rapid diagnosis, and life-saving interventions.
Functional MRI (fMRI) - Advanced Brain Mapping
Functional MRI (fMRI) is an advanced and non-invasive brain imaging technique that helps doctors understand how different parts of the brain work in real time. Unlike a routine MRI that mainly shows the structure of the brain, fMRI identifies active brain areas by detecting changes in blood flow and oxygen levels while a person performs simple tasks such as speaking, moving a hand, reading, or thinking.
Ten Effective Remedies That You Can Refer to When You Are Suffering from Muscle Cramps
Finally starting off with the gym life can get too overwhelming until you hit those muscle cramps along with the weights.
ICSI(Intra Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
Normally during every mid-menstrual period, one of the 2 ovaries releases an ovum. Each ovum is covered by a membrane called follicle,
Pregnancy and Delivery Care
Nothing could possibly compare to the joy of becoming a parent. After nine long months of waiting, the moment you have been waiting for is almost there:
Some Common Causes of Chest Pain
The first thing that jumps into the mind whenever you have some sort of chest pain is heart attack! It’s only human to feel that way
Organic Food Vs GMO Food: What Should You Pick?
There is no doubt that the quality of food we consume is crucial for our good health. And with more people becoming health conscious the d
Importance of Breastfeeding and Vaccinations for Newborns
Going nature’s way is best when it comes to providing nourishment for the apple of your eye – your baby. Breast milk is best for your baby as it
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A Breakthrough in Kidney Stone Treatment
Kidney stones, those small, hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys, can cause excruciating pain and discomfort.
Skin Tags - Benign Tumor or Cancerous Tumor?
Skin tag if observed is a narrow stalk that hangs about your skin, bulging at the end. They are usually freshly colored and can grow anywhere on your body.
3 Ways Vitamin C is Helpful for the Immune System
The water-soluble vitamin, Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid. It is helpful in building up the blood vessels, skins, and making bones stronger
Related Blogs
Can Epilepsy Be Cured Permanently? Treatment Options Explained
At KIMSHEALTH, expert neurologists provide advanced epilepsy diagnosis and treatment in Thiruvananthapuram using modern technologies including Video EEG monitoring and epilepsy surgery.
Diet and Lifestyle Before and After Liver Transplant
Nutrition and lifestyle choices play an important role both before and after liver transplant. Proper care supports recovery, reduces complications, and improves long-term health.
