home health making it easier for bacteria to grow. The good news? There’s a simple solution, literally, to help prevent an infection from occurring. “For the prevention of swimmer’s ear, you can make homemade ear drops by mixing one part white vinegar and one part rubbing alcohol,” Daling explains. “The solution dries up the ear more quickly, and the acidity helps keep bacteria under control. A young and healthy person who just has some itching of the ear canal can safely treat the condition with the same home remedies as are used for prevention, but see their doctor if symptoms get worse.” For those not fond of creating their own concoction, over-the-counter ear drops are available. Parents and caregivers of children with ear tubes should talk to their doctor before giving them any over-the-counter or homemade drops. “These drops can only be used if
your eardrum is intact. Any person with ear tubes, or perforation of the eardrum, should not use any drops in the ear without consulting their doctor,” Daling says. But as long as you have ears,
preventative practices are key to stopping swimmer’s ear in the first place. “Using a Q-tip to get rid of water can also take out ear wax, so it’s not the best option. Better is to tilt your head sideways, pull and rub your earlobe, and use a towel to catch the water. You can even use a hair dryer, several inches away from the ear, and on the lowest setting and lowest heat while tilting your head to get the canal dry. If you are prone to swimmer’s ear, and you spend a lot of time in the water, you want to keep water from entering the ear canal altogether. You can use a tight-fitting bathing cap, and you can also use earplugs,” Daling says. Regardless of age, or ear type, these recommended ear-drying methods are a must-do after spending time in the pool, lake, ocean, and even shower this summer.
AGE REVERSING DENtIStRy Norman Peets DDS, FAGD
General Dentistry:
All forms of Reconstructive Dentistry including Fillings, Crown and Bridge, Dentures, and Extractions.
seDation Dentistry:
Anxiety-Free Dentistry Our unique “Conscious Sedation” system makes dentistry comfortable and affordable.
laser Dentistry:
Dental lasers offer you improved results for a host of procedures including cavity treatment, cosmetic dentistry, and treatment of periodontal “gum” problems. Today’s advances in dental laser technology have dramatically improved patient comfort. Dental lasers provide pinpoint accuracy and early intervention for periodontal “gum” disease. Best of all, a shot is rarely required, no drill is used and many minor surgical procedures are done with no pain at all.
implant Dentistry:
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770-532-2336 615 Green Street Gainesville, GA
www.SmileScience.net 22
May | June 2013
HOME Living
In North Georgia