August 21, 2012

Summer’s Here = Swimmer’s Ear

     Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the external ear canal that often accompanies the changes in weather and lifestyle we welcome in the summer months.  Repeated contact with water, especially warm or chlorinated water can lead to a breakdown of the skin and protective wax layer of the ear canal.  This can lead to bacteria invading the ear canal, which causes swelling and pain. 

     External ear infections are treated with topical ear drops, rather than oral antibiotics.  Children who get repeated episodes can benefit from preventative drops which maintain the acid environment of the ear canal skin.  A one-to-one combination of distilled white vinegar and rubbing alcohol is a safe and “tried and true” preventative remedy.

Tony Kovatch, M.D.

Dr. Kovatch is a Board Certified Pediatrician at the Arcadia Division
Click here to visit the Arcadia Division Page

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