Infection to the external part of the ear due to exposure to infectious agents is known as Swimmers Ear. It is also known by the name of Otitis Externa. This infection usually happens when the ear gets over exposed to the infected water and due to this it got its name as swimmers ear. Prolonged contact of skin to the water makes the outer layer of epidermis soft and wrinkled, and it becomes easy for the fungi and bacteria to invade protective outer layer. There are different home remedies for swimmers ear and one can always try these at home.

The symptoms of swimmers ear are the increased sensitivity and painful itching sensation. There is a decrease in hearing ability and the ear wax becomes paler and softer in color. Sometimes there can even be a discharge of white or yellow liquid from the ear. The patient will feel the heaviness of ear and a sudden sharp pain. Outer skin of external ear becomes scaly and patchy.

First and foremost thing is to clean the ear and drain any fluid which has built up in it. Alcohol is a good disinfectant; rubbing alcohol will disinfect the ear and will allow the evaporation of any excess water. Garlic oil, baby oil and olive oil when applied help in giving relief to swimmers ear. Applying a hot compress on the affected area is one of the simple home remedies for swimmers ear, it will bring down the pain and swelling. You can even place a heating pad or hot towel against the ear to reduce the moisture and pain. The best way to prevent the bacteria from growing is to keep the ears dry all the time. Or you can try using a hair dryer on a low setting to dry the insides of the ears.

Vinegar is also one of the common home remedies for swimmers ear. Put few drops of vinegar on both ears, since vinegar is good in fighting bacteria. Before going to the pool one can add few drops of oil in the ear to prevent water from getting into it or you can use ear plugs. Never use any hard object to clean the ears, it’s better to use cotton buds. Shake out the water from the ears after every swim and use soft towel to dry the openings. Try avoiding processed and hydrogenated foods. Do not smoke and increase the intake of vitamin C and zinc which will improve the immune system and reduce ear infection. These home remedies for swimmers ear are easy to follow and can be tried at home.

Read more Home Remedies for Swimmers Ear. Also know useful Home Remedies for Stomach Ulcers. Read effective Home Remedies for Tinnitus.

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