Swimmer’s Ear Treatment and Prevention

Prevention

Because swimmer’s ear is caused by water, the most simple way to prevent it is to not get your ears wet when swimming or bathing. If that ruins your water fun, you can try wearing a swim cap or ear plugs. Putting drops in the ear of 50 percent rubbing alcohol and 50 percent vinegar before hopping in the water may also prevent swimmer’s ear. Once you’re out of the water, tilt your head to each side to ensure that all the water has drained from your ears. You may need to tug at your earlobes and try out different head positions to drain it all. Then towel dry your ears.

Reviewed by: 
Review Date: 
July 16, 2015

Last Updated:
July 16, 2015