DALLAS, Jun 29, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- People who swim in pools and lakes
this summer should remember their refreshing swims can lead to painful ear
infections, a U.S. expert says.
Dr. Barbara Schultz, associate professor of otolaryngology -- head and neck
surgery -- at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, recommends
treating ears after leaving the water for the day with over-the-counter drops
that cost about $3 per bottle or with a 50-50 mix of white vinegar and rubbing
alcohol.
"When water mixes with ear wax, that's a perfect growth medium for bacteria in a
dark, somewhat enclosed space like the ear," Schultz says in a statement.
"Swimmer's ear is painful, and the antibiotics we use to treat it are much more
expensive than the preventive measures."
People with surgically implanted tubes or damaged eardrums often can swim, but
they should do so with a doctor's approval, Schultz adds.
"They also should not apply drying drops or vinegar and alcohol after swimming.
It would not damage the ear, but it would be very painful," Schultz says. "If
they did it once, they wouldn't do it again."
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Copyright 2009 by United Press International