Memorial Day weekend is an exciting time for many
children because it marks the opening of most area swimming pools.
Chances are, your child will spend a lot of time in the water the next
couple of months. All that time in the water can cause swimmer’s ear.
Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the ear canal. It most commonly
occurs in children who have spent a lot of time in the water. Too much
moisture in the ear can break down the skin in the ear canal, allowing
bacteria or fungi to penetrate the area.
“Swimmer’s ear is a common summertime infection, and it can be
very painful,” says Daniel Bruegger, MD, chief of Ear, Nose and Throat
services at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics. “It’s important to
get your child to a doctor for treatment if you suspect swimmer’s ear.”
The most common symptom of swimmer’s ear is pain in the ear, which
can be severe. You may also notice abnormal discharge from the ear. If
you notice these symptoms, see your pediatrician.
To prevent swimmer’s ear, encourage your child to dry her ears
thoroughly and to turn her head to the side to help water drain from
the ear. Over-the-counter ear drops can also be effective, but they
should not be used in children who have ear tubes.
