Best Over The Counter Medicine For Swimmer's Ear
Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming or bathing. This moisture creates an environment that allows bacteria to grow and cause an infection. The symptoms of swimmer's ear include itching, redness, pain, and drainage from the ear. If not treated promptly, swimmer's ear can lead to hearing loss or spread to other parts of the body. Fortunately, over the counter medicines are available that can effectively treat swimmer's ear. In this article, we will discuss the best over the counter medicine for swimmer's ear.
1. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a common household disinfectant that can also be used to treat swimmer's ear. It works by loosening and removing earwax and other debris that can trap bacteria and cause infection. To use hydrogen peroxide, mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water and use a dropper to put a few drops of the solution into the affected ear. Tilt your head to the side and let the solution sit in your ear for a few minutes before draining it out. Repeat this process two to three times per day until your symptoms improve.
2. Ear Drops
Ear drops are a common way to treat swimmer's ear. There are different types of ear drops available, including those with antibiotics to fight bacterial infections and those with steroids to reduce inflammation and swelling. Some popular over the counter ear drops include Swim-Ear and Debrox. To use ear drops, tilt your head to the side and place a few drops into the affected ear. Follow the instructions on the packaging regarding how long to keep your head tilted and how often to use the drops. Be sure to finish the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve before the end of the treatment period.
3. Pain Relievers
Swimmer's ear can be very painful, especially if left untreated. Over the counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging regarding the recommended dosage and frequency of use.
4. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a natural remedy that can help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with swimmer's ear. It works by lubricating the ear canal and reducing irritation. To use olive oil, warm the oil slightly and use a dropper to put a few drops into the affected ear. Tilt your head to the side and let the oil sit in your ear for a few minutes before draining it out. Repeat this process two to three times per day until your symptoms improve.
5. Garlic Oil
Garlic oil is a natural remedy that can help to fight bacterial infections and reduce inflammation. To make garlic oil, crush a few cloves of garlic and mix them with olive oil. Warm the mixture slightly and use a dropper to put a few drops into the affected ear. Tilt your head to the side and let the oil sit in your ear for a few minutes before draining it out. Repeat this process two to three times per day until your symptoms improve.
Conclusion
Swimmer's ear can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but over the counter medicines are available that can effectively treat it. Hydrogen peroxide, ear drops, pain relievers, olive oil, and garlic oil are all effective remedies that can help to reduce inflammation, fight bacterial infections, and relieve pain associated with swimmer's ear. If your symptoms do not improve with over the counter medicines or if you experience fever, severe pain, or drainage from the ear, be sure to see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.