Swimmer’s Ear in McLean
If you like to spend a lot of time in the water, you’re probably no stranger to swimmer’s ear. It’s uncomfortable and seems to take a long time to go away. What exactly is swimmer’s ear in McClean, and how is it treated?
What Is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear is also known as an outer ear infection. It’s an infection that occurs in the outer opening of your ear and ear canal. This usually occurs because your ear has had exposure to moisture, which provides the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
You can also get an outer ear infection from damaging the skin in your ear by wearing headphones, scratching intensely, or using cotton swabs to clean your ears.
How Is Swimmer’s Ear Diagnosed?
Swimmer’s ear can happen to anyone at any age. Symptoms include swelling, heat coming from your ear, pain, discharge, itching, and even reduced hearing.
Diagnosing an outer ear infection is very easy for an ENT doctor, and they’ll be able to know if anything is wrong just by looking in your ear with an otoscope.
How Is Swimmer’s Ear Treated?
Most outer ear infections go away on their own. If you still have swimmer’s ear after about 10 days or you have significant pain or hearing loss, you need to see an ear doctor. They will determine whether you need treatment, which may include antibiotics, steroid drops, pain relievers, or an antifungal medication.
Where Can I Get Treatment For Swimmer’s Ear in McClean?
At ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery, we are experts in diagnosing ear infections, including swimmer’s ear. Sometimes, an infection just won’t go away on its own.
That’s when you need to make an appointment with one of our amazing ENT doctors. To have your ears examined, contact us today at 703-448-0005 to make an appointment with one of our specialists!
