First Aid: Swimmer's Ear

If someone you know is prone to swimmer's ear, take the following precaution:

Mix one part rubbing alcohol (dries the canal) and one part white vinegar (inhibits bacteria).
Put several drops of the solution into each ear immediately after a swim and again two hours later.

Do not use if there is a tube in the ear for drainage or a hole in the eardrum.

Is it an infection?

Severe pain, impaired hearing, white or yellowish-green discharge from the ear, fever or swollen glands are all signs of infection that can be treated with antibiotics.

Water safety