Steer Clear of Swimmers Ear

Maybe you’ve spent the afternoon in the pool, or merely relaxed in an extra-long shower. You don’t have to be a swimmer to suffer the discomfort of swimmer’s ear. And while your doctor can recommend medicated eardrops to knock out the infection and relieve the itching and irritation, in the long run, it’s better to prevent the pain-causing bacteria from returning. Here’s how:

·   After swimming or showering, thoroughly dry your outer ear, wiping slowly and gently with a soft towel or cloth. Tip your head to the side to help the water drain from your ear.

·   It’s true what you’ve heard—you should never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear. And that includes cotton swabs, which merely irritate your ears and make them more vulnerable to infections.

·   Before you go swimming, place a few drops of jojoba or mineral oil in each ear.

·   After swimming, use eardrops that help water evaporate more quickly. You can buy them in drugstores, but it’s easy to make your own by mixing equal amounts of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar.

·   Wear a bathing cap or earplugs the next time you take the plunge to prevent water from getting inside your ear.