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Homemade Ear Drops for Swimmer's Ear

Swimmer's ear is the common term for painful inflammation of the external auditory canal. This inflammation is generally caused by water that has become trapped in the ear, which encourages the growth of bacteria. Water can be pushed into the ear canal by the insertion of cotton swabs, earplugs or headphones or by exposure to excessive moisture. Under constantly damp conditions, not only does the ear fail to dry naturally, but the pH of the surrounding tissues also can be altered, paving the way for the growth of harmful microbes.

  1. Ear Drops

    • To make your own ear drops and successfully treat swimmer's ear, remember why the ear is infected: It's too moist and bacteria are thriving in the ear canal. To dry out the ear and kill the bacteria, use a combination of isopropyl alcohol and apple cider vinegar. Pour 1 tsp. of each into a small bottle and shake vigorously until the two liquids are well-blended. The alcohol will sterilize the ear and evaporate quickly, aiding in the drying process. The vinegar creates an acidic and hostile environment which discourages bacterial growth.

    Application

    • To use your ear drops, remove a small quantity of the solution from the bottle with an eye dropper. Tilt your head toward your shoulder, turning the infected ear toward the ceiling. Place three to four drops into the ear and then wait for 10 seconds. Return your head to its normal position. Dab your ear with a paper towel if ear drops run back out. Repeat this procedure every two to three hours until the infection clears up. Store any unused portion in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

    Alternatives

    • If you'd rather not mix your own ear drops, two to three drops of garlic oil can produce similar results. The chemical compounds in garlic also have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Or mix a bit of garlic with olive oil or mineral oil for a soothing remedy that counteracts the infection.

    Warnings

    • If after five to seven days of self care you see no improvement or if your symptoms get significantly worse, consult a health care provider. Additionally, if you have pain that isn't alleviated by over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, dizziness, blurry vision, or any condition in which the immune system is compromised, seek medical assistance immediately.

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