Otitis externa is more commonly known as swimmer's ear. It is an infection which causes the ear canal and the outer ear to inflame. It is a very common condition found in people and is also commonly known as earache.

Causes of Swimmer's Ear:
Swimmer's ear is generally caused by the presence of bacteria or fungus. The bacterium is generated in moist situations. Whenever the ear gets moist, there is a high possibility of bacteria breeding there. Swimming in unhealthy water is considered to be the main cause of this infection. Another main cause of swimmer's ear is diabetes. The diabetes condition is known to give rise to excessive earwax which may attract bacteria and fungus. Inserting sharp objects into the ear such as ear buds, fingernails and many more can cause this infection. The high chemical content found in shampoos and hairsprays may enter the ear and produce this infection. Swimmer's ear may also arise if a lot of wind enters the ear canal.

Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear:
The main symptom of swimmer's ear is chronic or acute pain in the inner and outer part of the ear. You may also notice excessive earwax and puss oozing out of the ear. The hearing may reduce and you may experience a soft ringing in the ear. These are some of the main symptoms of swimmer's ear.

Top Effective Home Remedies for Swimmer's Ear:
Home remedies for swimmer's ear are considered to be extremely safe and free from side effects. These home remedies can be applied by people of all age groups. Some of the remedies are listed below:-

1) First and foremost, it is very important to dry the ear completely. Use a hair dryer in this situation.

2) Insert two to three drops of warm baby oil in each ear. Place cotton pieces in the ear so that the oil does not drain out. Follow this method at least four times in a day.

3) Apple cider vinegar is also an effective home remedy for swimmer's ear. Put two to three drops of apple cider vinegar in each ear at least four times in a day.

4) Give a warm treatment to the ears. Apply a heat pad on the outer portion of the ear for at least 10 minutes. The heat is known to be very instrumental in reducing the swelling.

5) Olive oil and avocado oil are also very effective cures for swimmer's ear.

Other Suggestions for Swimmer's Ear:
1) Keep your ears dry at all times.

2) Immediately dry your ears as soon as they get wet.

3) Wear earplugs or insert cotton during windy weather.

4) Insert two drops of herbal oil in each ear before bedtime.