'Tis the Time of Year for Painful Swimmer's Ear
Memorial Day weekend is an exciting time for many children because it marks the opening of most area swimming pools. Chances are, your child will spend a lot of time in the water the next couple of months. All that time in the water can cause swimmer’s ear.
Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the ear canal. It most commonly occurs in children who have spent a lot of time in the water. Too much moisture in the ear can break down the skin in the ear canal, allowing bacteria or fungi to penetrate the area.
“Swimmer’s ear is a common summertime infection, and it can be very painful,” says Daniel Bruegger, MD, chief of the Ear, Nose and Throat Section at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics. “It’s important to get your child to a doctor for treatment if you suspect swimmer’s ear.”
The most common symptom of swimmer’s ear is pain in the ear, which can be severe. You may also notice abnormal discharge from the ear. If you notice these symptoms, see your pediatrician.
To prevent swimmer’s ear, encourage your child to dry her ears thoroughly and to turn her head to the side to help water drain from the ear. Over-the-counter ear drops can also be effective, but they should not be used in children who have ear tubes.