Kids and Swimmer's Ear

With hot temperatures and long days of summer ahead, the swimming pool can be the perfect place to spend an afternoon with the kids. Many times, after a day's worth of swimming, kids come home complaining of an earache. This is a common occurrence and is referred to as acute otitis externa (AOE), also known as swimmer's ear. The condition is a common problem among kids, and Jerome Thompson, MD, MBA, FACS, and otolaryngologist with UT Le Bonheur Pediatric Specialists, took some time to provide his expertise about the topic. Here's what he had to say:

"Swimmer's ear is usually caused from moisture that can be trapped in the ear after swimming. Factors that predispose the ear to the infection include high outdoor temperature, high humidity and water exposure. Many times severe pain when the external ear is touched or lightly pulled can be signs of the infection.

Parents can help prevent swimmer's ear by putting alcohol into the ear after the child has been swimming. Have your child lay her head on a flat surface with the affected ear facing up. Once the alcohol has been poured into the child's ear, place a cotton ball on the ear and have her turn her head the opposite direction and lay flat so that the alcohol and excess water can drain out.

Antibiotic drops work best if your child gets swimmer's ear. Ciprodex (ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone) contains a steroid and an antibiotic and is the drug I'd recommend. Call or make an appointment with your pediatrician for more information on other treatment options."