Remedies to Relieve Post-Diving Ear Infections in Bali
After a dive in a biodiversity-rich environment, it’s not uncommon to end up with an ear infection, commonly known as otitis. Ear infection remedies are essential in Bali, as having an ear infection can ruin your diving trip.
Although often not serious, it’s essential to know how to relieve an ear infection and prevent it from worsening.
What Is Otitis?
Otitis is an inflammation that can be acute or chronic, affecting the ear canals and cavities. While it’s often of infectious origin, it can also be viral or related to pressure changes, such as during a flight or dive. If you develop an ear infection, it’s advisable to see a doctor. However, if you can’t do so immediately, here are some home remedies to consider.
Why Diving Can Cause Ear Infections?
Diver’s ear, also known as swimmer’s ear, is a common ailment for those who spend a lot of time underwater. It results from an infection of the external ear canal. It typically occurs after repeated dives if you don’t rinse and dry your ears properly. Water is full of bacteria and sediments that can accumulate in your ears, leading to infection. Moreover, if you dive in tropical waters like Indonesia or Thailand, warm water can make you more prone to ear infections. If you plan to dive in Bali, you can follow this link: [insert your link here].
A useful tip to prevent diver’s ear is to rinse your ears with a mixture of 50% hydrogen peroxide and 50% mineral water after each dive. However, if you still develop an ear infection related to diving, here are some remedies to consider.
Remedies to Relieve an Ear Infection in Bali
1.Otopain
In Indonesia, you can find a non-prescription medicine called Otopain in stores and pharmacies. It contains two antibiotics: an anti-inflammatory and a pain reliever.
Usage tip: Place 3-4 drops in the ear for a minimum of 20 minutes. This powerful remedy ensures quick relief!
This medication eases ear pain, congestion, and swelling from middle ear inflammation (acute otitis media). It also removes earwax. It contains two main drugs. Benzocaine is a topical anesthetic numbing pain. Antipyrine reduces pain and inflammation. It may contain glycerin, softening earwax, and zinc acetate protecting the skin.
How to use Oto-Ear Drops: Follow your doctor’s directions. Sometimes, antibiotics accompany it for infections. To ensure proper dosage and prevent ear contact, have someone else administer the drops. Warm the container to avoid dizziness. Clean your hands, don’t touch the dropper, and lie on your side. Hold the earlobe, place drops, and keep the head tilted or insert a cotton plug as directed. Repeat for the other ear. Don’t rinse the dropper. Replace the cap. If using it for earwax removal, rinse the ear with warm water or a rubber bulb after 2-3 days. Ask your doctor about safe bulb use.
2. Garlic and Onion, natural remedies to Relieve an Ear Infection in Bali
Why combine the two? Well, garlic is excellent at fighting infections, while onion has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Together, they form a natural antibiotic ideal for relieving an external ear infection caused by diving.
Usage tip: Cook garlic cloves and collect the juice. Create garlic juice by cooking garlic cloves. The steam will help extract the juice. Then, pour three drops into the painful ear. As for the onion, cut it and wrap it in cloth. Leave it on the affected ear for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Boric Acid
Another effective remedy! If you develop an ear infection after numerous dives, check if someone around you has boric acid, also known as saturated boric. Besides disinfecting, it will help dry the ear canal to prevent maceration and limit the spread of germs responsible for diver’s external ear infection.
Usage tip: Rinse and dry your infected ear, then pour 4 to 5 drops into the infected ear. Repeat this process several times a day with your head tilted to the side.
4.Almond Oil or Olive Oil
Almond oil is well-known among divers for its healing properties concerning ear infections. To use, add 3 to 4 drops of oil into the infected ear. To enhance the effectiveness of almond oil for relieving your ear infection, it’s advisable to warm it with your hands. Another remedy for ear infection relief is olive oil. It has been appreciated by people suffering from ear infections for generations due to its high curative power.
Usage tip: Pour 2 to 3 drops of almond oil or olive oil into the infected ear.
What to Do If My Ear Infection Persists?
If your ear infection persists, it’s essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible. A persistent infection likely indicates that it’s more severe than anticipated, and natural remedies may not be sufficient. Your doctor will guide you toward an appropriate treatment.
This article explores remedies to relieve post-diving ear infections and provides insights into why diving can cause such issues.
By following these tips and being cautious, you can enjoy Bali’s beautiful underwater world while keeping your ears healthy.
Remember to consult a doctor for persistent ear infections.
If you’ve resolved your ear issues, we’d be delighted to welcome you to Amed in Bali for underwater diving or to enjoy scuba diving or snorkeling.
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For more information on our NEW ECO TOUR, a marine biology introduction and snorkeling exploration in Bali, click here