My baby keeps getting recurring ear infections, should I keep my child out of the pool this summer? What should I do to keep her from getting them so frequently?
There are two common types of ear infections that we encounter in the pediatric population: middle ear infections, and external ear infections. Ear infections caused by the pool are likely to be external, otherwise known as swimmer’s ear. General pediatricians commonly encounter this diagnosis during the summer months in school aged children who submerge their heads underwater. It typically presents as pain with movement of the external ear cartilage or pain with chewing. There may also be swelling, redness, or discharge from the canal.
To prevent swimmer’s ear I recommend drying the ears with a towel as soon as your child leaves the pool. Ear plugs can be a great tool for patients that tend to suffer from recurrent swimmer’s ear. The CDC also recommends the use of a hair dryer on a cool, low setting, set several inches from the ear if your child continues to complain of the sensation of water in her ears.
Middle ear infections are more likely to be triggered by a viral upper respiratory infection, or tight anatomy of the tubes that enable drainage from the middle ear. This can lead to a pooling of fluid that creates a breeding ground for bacteria. These infections are less likely to be caused by swimming in a body of water. Checking in with a pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat physician is imperative if these infections tend to recur to ensure there is no chronic fluid or scarring of the eardrum, which may lead to hearing loss.
