Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version

DESCRIPTION

Your child repeatedly scratches his ear or complains that it itches.

CAUSE

Most older children who complain of itchy ear canals have a mild otitis externa from: (1) water accumulation during swimming or showers, (2) soap or shampoo retention, or (3) canal irritation from cotton swabs. Cotton swabs remove the earwax that normally protects the lining of the ear canal, and this leads to itching and irritation.

SIMILAR CONDITIONS

Swimmer's Ear

HOME CARE

1. Treatment

   White vinegar has acetic acid in it and can usually restore the ear canal to its normal chemistry. Fill one ear canal at a time with white vinegar. Do this by running the vinegar down the side of the opening so that air doesn't get trapped under it. Leave it in for 5 minutes, then remove it with gravity by turning down the side of the head and wiggling the earlobe. Do this twice a day for 3 or 4 days.

2. Prevention
   • Keep soap and shampoo out of the ear canal.
   • Don't use cotton swabs in the ear canal.
   • After swimming, get all water out of the ear canals by turning the head to the side and pulling the earlobe in different directions to help the water run out.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:

• The ear canals itch for over a week.
• The ear becomes painful.
• You have other questions or concerns.