3 tips to prevent swimmer's ear

Swimmer's ear leads to 2.4 million doctor visits every year. Robin Miller, MD, shares 3 steps to protect your ears every time you swim.

Transcript

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Tilt your head, hop lightly on one foot, and let gravity and shaking clear your ears while pulling your lower ear lobe in different directions

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to help the water escape. [UPBEAT MUSIC]

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Hi, I'm Dr. Miller with a smart tip if your family loves to swim. Swimmers ear leads to 2.4 million annual doctor visits,

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half by adults. Here's how to keep water out of your ear canals, which will keep little critters from moving in and causing

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infections. Use a swim cap and earplugs. Both help block water so bugs can't settle down and multiply.

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Dry off fast. As soon as you finish swimming, gently blot your ears dry with a towel. No poking around with cotton swabs.

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That could start trouble, not stop it. Tilt and hop. Still got water in there? Tilt your head, hop lightly on one foot, and let gravity

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and shaking clear your ears while pulling your lower ear lobe in different directions to help the water escape. Or hold a hairdryer several inches from your ear.

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Just be sure it's on the lowest heat and fan settings. If you develop pain, itchiness, redness, or pus,

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see your doctor. You may need antibiotic ear drops. I'm Dr. Miller. For more ways to stay healthy, watch all our smart tips.