Spring is here and that means we are starting to see more diseases from our outdoor activities. People are going to the beach and the kids are getting in the pool. Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is caused by the ear canal getting wet and bacteria infecting the skin. It is a painful condition that can be prevented. Try to protect your ears from water with ear plugs if you have recurrent problems, especially if you have problems with your ear drums. If you know water is in your ear, tip your head to the side or use a hair dryer (at a safe distance from your skin so as not to burn) to dry out your ear. You can also apply a mix of alcohol and white vinegar to the canal to dry it out. Mix them in equal parts and put a few drops in each canal to prevent any infection. If you do develop an infection, take over the counter anti-inflammatory medications and give your doctor a call. Infections require topical antibiotics to help the healing.

We are seeing more rashes this spring from exposure to poison ivy. “Leaves of three, let them be” is important to remember. You can find many pictures of poison ivy, sumac, and oak on the internet. The rash usually develops in 1-2 days but can last up to 4 weeks. The allergic reaction comes from the oil on the leaves, roots, and vines. You can prevent exposure by wearing long pants, sleeves, and boots. There are also commercial products to block your skin from the oil. If you are exposed, wash with cold water immediately and then clean off with rubbing alcohol. Remove all the clothing that was exposed and wash it as well. You can apply cold compresses and use some common over the counter medications like steroid creams, calamine, Aveeno or baking soda bathes, and oral antihistamines (diphenhydramine, loratadine, cetirizine). If the reaction is severe, contact your doctor for evaluation and treatment with steroid pills and stronger creams that are available. Remember that the more you are exposed, the more severe the reaction.