If you’re an avid
swimmer, surfer or diver you’re likely familiar with Swimmer’s Ear. Otitis
externa, or swimmer’s ear, is an inflammation of the ear canal caused by
dampness that in turn causes irritation and itching and can often lead to
painful infection. In preparation for summer, here are 4 ways to naturally
prevent and relieve swimmer’s ear:
Swimmer's Ear Treatment
1. Leave Your Ear
Wax Alone! It protects the ear canal from excess moisture and harbors friendly
bacteria. Don’t use hairpins, fingernails or cotton swabs to remove wax, as
this can irritate and scratch the skin and lead to infection. The only way you should remove excess wax is
with a few drops of mineral oil, baby oil, ear drops or hydrogen peroxide, and
then let the loosened wax work its way out of your ear naturally. If excessive
wax build-up causes pain, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or loss of hearing,
you can have wax removed by your physician.
2. Take a
homeopathic/herbal remedy such as Clear Sinus & Ear as a preventative or
when symptoms occur to gently yet effectively help reduce moisture-related
health problems in the ear. This is also
great for preventing pressure in the ears when diving and an excellent swimmer's ear treatment.
3. Before and/or
after swimming, diving or surfing, use a dropper to squeeze 2-3 drops of
isopropyl alcohol and white vinegar in equal parts into the ear. Tilt your head
until the solution reaches the bottom of your ear canal, and then let the
solution drain out.
4. After
swimming, tilt and shake your head to drain water from your ears and/or use a
hair dryer on low held a foot or so from your head to dry out your ears.
About the
Author:
Dr. Stas' Ozog, PhD. (AM)
LAc., Dipl A & C.H.(NCCAOM)
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