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Treatment for Swimmer's Ear
Treatment of Swimmer's Ear
Swimmer's ear, when properly treated by a physician, usually clears up within seven to 10 days. Specific treatment for swimmer's ear will be determined by your physician and may include:
- Antibiotic ear drops or oral antibiotics
- Corticosteroid ear drops (to help decrease the swelling)
- Pain medication
- Keeping the ear dry, as directed by your physician
- A wick (a piece of sponge may be placed in your ear if there is a lot of swelling. This wick helps the antibiotic drops work more effectively in the ear canal.)
Preventing swimmer's ear
The following are some hints to help prevent swimmer's ear:
- Place two to three drops of a mixture of vinegar/isopropyl alcohol/water into your ear after the ears come in contact with water
- Use ear plugs for swimming or bathing
- Do not aggressively clean your ear canal