Guest Author - Carolyn Chambers Clark, RN, EdD

What is Swimmer's Ear?

Swimmer's ear can cause a feeling of fullness and itching as well as an ear canal that appears red and swollen. The canal may even develop a clear odorless secretion.

What does pH have to do with Swimmer's Ear?

What you need to do is to reduce the pH (or acid/base balance) of the ear canal and eliminate any bacteria that may be causing the problem.

What actions can you take to heal your ear?

*Promote an acid environment. Use acetic acid (white vinegar) 4-6 drops every two to three hours for seven to 10 days. You can also use boric acid solution, which you can buy at any pharmacy and that can help with healing.

Double-blind, controlled studies comparing effectiveness of vinegar, propylene glycol drops and antibiotic preparations showed no significant differences, which means vinegar's as good as any medication you can find.

*Avoid swimming and humidity will also promote healing. Some people report drying the ear with a hair dryer also works, but careful of using too much pressure and too much heat. A low, moderately warm blower is probably best.

How you can prevent Swimmer's Ear in the future?

Preventive action includes mixing rubbing alcohol and vinegar in equal proportions and putting a couple of drops in the effected ear. Use it every evening before bedtime to stop Swimmer's Ear from developing if you're prone to the condition.

Source:

Crowley, R. Lower pH stops swimmer's ear. Clinical Advisor, September, 2002.