Need Relief for Dull Ache in the Ears

[DocVikingo]

I haven't had any issues with my ears since I was a kid.

My right ear itches on the inside. I went out and got some alcohol, peroxide and vinegar, and made a 1:1:1 concoction at my desk here at work. As I type I am tilting my head to the side. (Have I mentioned that I started my job here a week ago? They probably think I am weird. LOL)

I am actually going to my doc tomorrow for something else, so I will ask about it then.

Hi LittleBug,

If you have an established case of swimmer's ear, the concoction you are using, or any similar one, likely will prove far more painful than effective. It is a preventative home brew, not a treatment for otitis externa.

Please let us know what your doctor has to say.

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[Ber Rabbit]

Hi TSandM,

Amazing how frequently treatment precedes diagnosis on this forum, isn't it?

Regards,

DocVikingo

This is what I was replying to:

Today I am noticing that my ear aches a bit. Probably a bout of swimmers ear coming on.

It's an ear that's just starting to hurt and the OP believes it's the start of swimmer's ear. That's when I always use the vinegar/alcohol mix rather than after every dive because it dries my ears out. I put it in as soon as I notice discomfort, any later than that and you're looking at a doctor visit.

I get the message though, keep my mouth shut.
Ber :lilbunny:

 

[LittleBug]

Went to doc this morning, and he had a look at the ear. He said that my ear was a bit red, and sent me on my way with some amoxycillin.

I am not too optimistic for finishing the rescue class on Saturday, which severely bums me out. I am in RI, and the season is rapidly coming to a close, and I really want to finish the class out, but don't want an injury either. So I will have to pay close attention to the ear over the next few days.

 

[DandyDon]

If you have an established case of swimmer's ear, the concoction you are using, or any similar one, likely will prove far more painful than effective. It is a preventative home brew, not a treatment for otitis externa.

That's what I was thinking? I think I tried that once, too late - after the infection had set in. Ouuuch!!

I have become much better at prophylactic treating of the ears with vinegar-alcohol after each & every dive as well as every shower. I don't know why hydrogen peroxide keeps getting suggested, as that just turns to water in the mix and dilutes the mix, does it not? My last ear infection disabled me completely for 2 days of pain - couldn't even walk around the house without the cortisone drops.

I'm curious about the stress in this thread? We are fortunate to have medical & diving professionals posting along with us laymen & amateurs. I just try to post from my own very amateur experiences.