Everyday Health

Water in the ear canal can create a breeding ground for bacteria, causing an infection formally known as otitis externa. To prevent: Post-swim, have your child tilt his head to each side while tugging on his earlobes to drain water, then gently dry ears with a towel. Place two drops of vinegar into each ear, says Jeffrey Bernstein, M.D., who specializes in pediatric emergencies at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. If your child complains of pain, his ear swells, lymph nodes become tender or there is a discharge, consult your doctor, who will prescribe antibiotics.