Let's learn exactly about ear drops (Hydrocortisone; Acetic Acid Ear Solution) for ear infections!

Have you ever had an ear infection with a sore, itchy ear? Or have you ever had a heavy, painful ear after swimming in a swimming pool? In such cases, a doctor may prescribe an ear solution. Today we are talking about one such commonly used medication, an ear solution containing hydrocortisone and acetic acid .

What is this medicine? Why is it used?

Simply put, this is a medication that treats infections of the outer ear . Sometimes we also call this “swimmer's ear.” This bottle of medication contains two main things.

1. Hydrocortisone : This is a type of steroid . It works by reducing swelling, redness, and itching inside the ear caused by infection .

2. Acetic Acid: This stops the growth of bacteria or fungi that caused the infection.

The combination of these two will quickly reduce your ear discomfort and help heal the infection. Sometimes your doctor may prescribe this medicine for other reasons as well. So if you have any questions, ask your doctor about it.

The most important things to tell your doctor before using the medicine

Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will need to know your complete health history . Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• If you have a ruptured ear drum or have had one in the past.
• If you have a viral infection in your ear, such as herpes.
• If you have a skin rash (vaccinia) that occurs after receiving the smallpox vaccine .
• If you have an allergic reaction to Hydrocortisone, Acetic Acid, propylene glycol, or any other medicine, food, or coloring contained in this medicine.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

To get the most out of your medicine, it's important to use it correctly. Let's take a step-by-step look at how to do that.

1. Hand washing : First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.

2. Cleaning the Ear: Next, use a clean, dry cotton swab to carefully clean the outside of the ear. Never insert the cotton swab into the ear. Only clean the areas that are visible from the outside.

3. Warming the bottle: Hold the medicine bottle in your hand for a minute or two. This will warm it up a bit. Some people may feel dizzy when they suddenly put cold medicine drops in their ears. This will help prevent that.

4. Position: Lie on your side with the infected ear facing up.

5. Applying the medicine: Carefully squeeze the bottle without letting the tip of the dropper touch your ear, fingertips, or anywhere else, and put the number of drops of medicine prescribed by the doctor into your ear.

6. Wait a moment:Lie on the side where the medicine was applied for about 30-60 seconds. This will give the medicine time to absorb well into the ear.

7. For the other ear: If you want to apply medicine to the other ear, do the same for that ear.

Important: Use this medicine as directed by your doctor, for the full duration of the treatment. Even if you feel better, continue taking the medicine for the full number of days prescribed. If you stop taking it, the infection may come back.

Should this medicine be given to children?

Doctors sometimes prescribe this medicine to children over 3 years of age. However, there are special precautions. Therefore, if you are giving this medicine to a child, talk to your pediatrician about it and follow his or her instructions exactly.

What to do if you overdose on medication?

If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Things to be careful about when using the medicine

• If there is no improvement: If your ear infection does not seem to be improving after a few days of using the medicine, tell your doctor.
• Allergies: If you experience any allergic reaction, such as swelling, rash, or itching in the ear or surrounding skin after using the medicine, stop using the medicine immediately and contact your doctor.
• Keep the ear dry: This is very important. When bathing, be careful not to let water get into the infected ear. Wear a shower cap, or cover the ear so that water does not get in. Do not go swimming for any reason until your doctor gives you permission.
• Prevent the spread of infection: This can be contagious, so don't share your ear drops, towels, or hand sanitizer with anyone else.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. But not everyone does. Let's take a look at what they are.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, please consult your doctor.