Swimmer’s ear is a painful infection of the outer ear and ear canal that typically occurs when water becomes trapped in the ear and bacteria multiply. To treat the infection, ear, nose, and throat doctors would sometimes prescribe antibiotics in the form of pills. Recently, the American Academy of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery Foundation recommended that physicians prescribe antibiotic ear drops, instead of pills, to treat swimmer’s ear.
The pills that were prescribed to treat swimmer’s ear are now thought to be ineffective and only promote the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The new guidelines do recognize that pills may be appropriate if the infection has spread outside of the ear. In addition to antibiotic drops or pills, painkillers may be prescribed depending on the patient’s level of pain at the time.
For more information or to have ear discomfort diagnosed, contact Orlando ENT today to make an appointment.
