3 Natural otitis externa remedies that can be done at home

Swimming does provide a myriad of benefits to the body. That is why, no one would have thought that this water sport could bring disease, especially ear infections. Yes, this condition is called otitis externa or also known as swimmer's ear. If you already experience it, are there any natural remedies to treat this external otitis?

What causes otitis externa?

Before moving on to find out what natural otitis exerts remedies, it's a good idea to first understand why this condition can occur. Otitis externa is an infection on the outside of the ear, which is caused by the presence of water in the inner ear.

Normally, the ear wax or fluid produced is responsible for fighting bacteria and viruses that cause ear infections. However, the water trapped in the ear creates a humid environment, which makes it easier for bacteria to build up.

Especially when you like to scratch your ears, which will further damage the soft skin layer in this area. The damaged layer of skin seems to provide room for bacteria to multiply. In this condition, ear wax is not able to kill bacteria because the support of humid conditions actually triggers an infection.

Otitis externa is experienced by many swimmers and people who like to swim, because the ears are prone to water ingress. This is why otitis externa is also referred to as swimmer's ear or swimmer's ear.

What are the natural home remedies for otitis externa?

Apart from medical treatment, home remedies can also be used to help restore the ear due to otitis externa. The following are various options for ways you can relieve pain, redness, itching, and various symptoms of swimmer's ear infection:

1. Warm compress

Get a bowl of warm water and a clean cloth, towel, or washcloth, then apply a warm compress to the affected ear. Try not to use the water temperature too hot, but warm enough so that it will not injure your ears.

Do this natural otitis externa treatment several times a day, at least until the pain subsides enough.

2. Drops of garlic juice

The natural content in garlic is believed to help fight infection-causing bacteria, thus making it a treatment for otitis externa. However, you are advised to be careful or you should avoid using this natural material if discharge from the ear.

The reason is, sometimes an ear infection can affect the condition of the eardrum, causing it to secrete fluid. In addition, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor first about the use of garlic along with medical drugs for otitis externa.

3. Vinegar and alcohol solution

Using a solution of vinegar mixed with a little alcohol can also be a natural treatment for otitis externa. In order to ensure its safety, you should use an alcohol solution made specifically for treatment.

The mixture of vinegar and alcohol can help treat swimmer's ear infection thanks to the benefits behind it. The vinegar works to both clean and eradicate infections, while the alcohol helps to evaporate the water, which prevents moisture from getting to the ears.

You can use this natural remedy for otitis externa several times a day, especially after direct contact with water. For example, after washing your face, taking a shower, and others.

Another important tip for treating otitis externa

Not only routinely apply medical and natural methods to deal with otitis exteriors or swimmer's ear infections that you have. Instead, do the following to reduce the risk of developing a more severe infection:

• Use ear plugs when showering and swimming to prevent water from getting into the ears
• Avoid scratching the inner ear
• Avoid using cotton swabs to clean the ears
• Make sure your ears are always dry by cleaning them regularly after the activity

It is important to remember, that ear infections can easily occur after exposure to dirty water. Therefore, avoid swimming, bathing, or washing your face using dirty water sources that are prone to contain lots of bacteria in them.