Cellulitis - Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Prevention You Can Take

Cellulitis - Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Prevention You Can Take

  January 25, 2025    Admin ✓

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Cellulitis - Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Prevention You Can Take,

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the inner layers of the skin and the soft tissue beneath it. This disease can appear quickly and cause serious symptoms, especially if not treated properly. This infection is often caused by Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria which enter through small wounds or scratches on the skin. Cellulitis can attack anyone, but people with immune system disorders are usually more susceptible to this disease.

What Is Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is an inflammatory skin condition caused by bacterial infection, especially in the dermis layer and subcutaneous tissue. This disease causes redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes accompanied by fever. This infection also usually appears in areas of damaged skin, either due to wounds, insect bites, or scratches. If left untreated, the bacteria that cause cellulitis can spread to other parts of the body through the blood vessels or lymphatic system, and can be life-threatening if the infection spreads.

Main Causes of Cellulitis

• Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus) : This bacteria is a common cause of throat infections and other skin infections, including cellulitis. Infection by this bacteria can spread quickly and cause swelling and redness.
• Staphylococcus aureus : This type of bacteria often causes cellulitis, especially the methicillin-resistant variant of Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA. MRSA infections require intensive treatment because this bacteria is resistant to several types of antibiotics.

Risk Factors That Increase the Risk of Cellulitis

• Open Wounds on the Skin : Wounds that are not cleaned or cared for promptly can provide an entry point for bacteria. Open wounds, insect bites, scratches and abrasions on the skin should always be kept clean to prevent infection.
• Weakened Immune System : People with a weakened immune system, such as people with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or patients on immunosuppressant therapy, have a higher risk of developing infections.
• Chronic Skin Diseases : Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or athlete's foot (tinea pedis) often cause dry, cracked, and irritated skin, which can provide entry points for bacteria.
• Leg Swelling (Edema) : Swelling from lymphedema or vein problems in the legs can increase the risk of cellulitis. This condition inhibits blood circulation and makes the skin more susceptible to infection.
• Obesity : Excess body weight is often associated with decreased blood flow to certain areas of the body, such as the legs. This can increase the risk of wounds and skin infections.
• History of Previous Cellulitis Infection : People who have had cellulitis before have a higher risk of developing the same infection in the future.

Cellulitis Symptoms to Watch Out for

• Redness and Swelling : Areas affected by cellulitis will appear red, swollen, and feel hot to the touch.
• Pain and Uncomfortable Sensations : Infected skin is painful and may cause a burning or itching sensation.
• Fever and Chills : If the infection has started to spread, the body may respond with a high fever and chills. Fever is a sign that the infection is starting to affect the body systemically.
• Wounds Excrete Fluid : In some cases, the infected area may ooze yellow fluid or pus as a sign of an active bacterial infection.
• Appearance of Red Lines : Cellulitis bacterial infection can spread to the blood vessels, resulting in red lines appearing that spread from the infection site to the lymph nodes.

Cellulitis Diagnosis and Treatment

To confirm the diagnosis of cellulitis, the doctor will perform a physical examination of the infected area. In some cases, a blood test is needed to confirm the presence of a bacterial infection or to check whether the infection has spread. In complex cases, such as suspected MRSA infection, tissue culture or other tests may be necessary. Treatment for cellulitis is antibiotics. The use of antibiotics is carried out according to the type of bacteria identified as the cause.

Some types of antibiotics that are often prescribed to treat cellulitis include :

• Oral antibiotics : In mild to moderate cases, doctors prescribe oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin or cefadroxil. This treatment can take up to two weeks.
• Intravenous (IV) antibiotics : In more serious cases or if the infection has spread, treatment with intravenous antibiotics in the hospital may be necessary.
• During the treatment period, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions and complete all prescribed antibiotics, even if symptoms begin to subside. This helps prevent recurrent infections or antibiotic resistance.

Cellulitis Prevention

• Maintain Wound Cleanliness : Immediately clean open wounds with clean water and soap. Use antiseptic and bandage the wound if necessary to prevent infection.
• Treat Existing Skin Conditions : If you have a skin condition such as eczema or athlete's foot, treat it immediately and prevent wounds or skin damage.
• Maintaining Personal Hygiene : Frequent hand washing and maintaining body hygiene are important steps in preventing skin infections.
• Wear Appropriate Footwear : Especially for people who often do outdoor activities, wearing footwear that protects their feet from cuts or injuries is very important.
• Avoid Using Products That Cause Irritation : Unsuitable products can cause skin to become sensitive or dry, which increases the risk of injury and infection.
• Controlling Chronic Diseases : For people with diabetes or other conditions that affect blood circulation, it is important to monitor blood sugar levels and stay healthy.

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Prevention of Syphilis in Men and Ways to Detect Symptoms

Prevention of Syphilis in Men and Ways to Detect Symptoms

  January 18, 2025    Admin ✓

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Prevention of Syphilis in Men and Ways to Detect Symptoms

Syphilis itself is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the presence of a bacteria called Treponema pallidum. This disease can have serious consequences if left untreated and can spread quickly through sexual contact. This prevention and early detection is key to reducing the risk of syphilis and preventing further complications. This article will also discuss special preventive measures for men, as well as how to detect the symptoms of syphilis correctly.

What is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses in several stages if left untreated. This disease can spread mainly through sexual intercourse, but it can also be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis). Syphilis usually starts with a small sore called a chancre, then develops into a skin rash, and can eventually cause serious complications.

Syphilis Stages

• Primary Stage : Characterized by the appearance of a chancre at the site of infection. These sores are painless and usually appear about 3 weeks after exposure to bacteria.
• Secondary Stage : Characterized by skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, and systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue.
• Tertiary Stage : If syphilis is not treated, it can cause damage to organs such as the heart, brain, and nervous system. This is the final stage of syphilis and can appear years after the initial infection.
• Latent Syphilis : A period of no symptoms following primary and secondary infections, but the bacteria are still present in the body and can cause further complications.

Prevention of Syphilis in Men

Syphilis prevention involves several very important steps to reduce the risk of infection. The following are some appropriate strategies that you can apply to prevent Syphilis :

Condom Use

• Description : Using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of transmitting syphilis and other STIs. Condoms made of latex or polyurethane are more effective in preventing infection.
• Tips : Make sure the condom is put on correctly before sexual intercourse and use a condom every time you have sexual intercourse, whether vaginal, anal or oral.

Routine Tests and Screening

• Description: Regular testing and screening is very important, especially if you have a high risk or frequently change sexual partners. Blood tests can detect syphilis infection, even in the latent stage.
• Tip: Talk to your doctor about the right testing frequency for you based on your lifestyle and sexual health history.

Avoiding Sexual Contact with an Infected Partner

• Description : If your partner shows symptoms of syphilis or has been diagnosed with the disease, avoid sexual intercourse until their infection is treated and completely cured.
• Tip : Communicate your sexual health status with your partner and ensure that both undergo regular medical examinations.

Sexual Education and Awareness

• Description : Increasing knowledge about the risks of syphilis and how it is transmitted can help in prevention. Good sexual education includes an understanding of prevention methods and the importance of regular testing.
• Tips : Take seminars or workshops on sexual health, and seek reliable information from trusted medical sources.

Monogamy and Communication

• Description : Having one faithful sexual partner can reduce the risk of getting syphilis. Open communication about sexual health and infection history is essential.
• Tip : Discuss your sexual health status with your partner openly and honestly to reduce the risk of infection.

Detecting Syphilis Symptoms in Men

Early detection of syphilis is very important to avoid serious complications. The symptoms of syphilis themselves can vary depending on the stage of infection, and are often similar to the symptoms of other diseases. The following are the symptoms you need to be aware of at each stage of syphilis:

Primary Stage

• Symptoms : Small sores or ulcerations (chancre) in the genital area, rectum, or mouth. This wound is painless and can be accompanied by swollen lymph nodes in the surrounding area.
• Action : If you notice unexplained sores or ulcerations in the genital area or mouth, consult a doctor immediately for evaluation and testing for syphilis.

Secondary Stage

• Symptoms : Skin rash that may appear all over the body, including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Other symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, flat lesions in the genital or anal area (condyloma lata), fever, sore throat, and fatigue.
• Action : If you have an unexplained skin rash or swollen lymph nodes, as well as systemic symptoms such as fever, have a blood test to determine whether syphilis is the cause.

Tertiary Stage

• Symptoms : If syphilis reaches the tertiary stage, symptoms can include heart problems, neurological disorders (such as impaired memory or coordination), and damage to other organs. This symptom can vary depending on the organ that has been affected.
• Action : If experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, cognitive problems, or coordination problems, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Further examinations such as MRI or heart tests may be needed to assess organ damage.

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Vertigo

Vertigo

  January 11, 2025    Admin ✓

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Vertigo is a symptom that causes a person to experience a sudden sensation of spinning dizziness.

In severe conditions, vertigo symptoms can interfere with daily activities. Because vertigo can cause loss of balance and disorientation. Vertigo attacks can even cause sufferers to fall.

When vertigo attacks, the things you feel can vary, such as light dizziness and appearing periodically. Severe vertigo attacks usually have a long duration and can last for several days so that the sufferer cannot carry out normal activities.

In mild conditions it may not be felt much and in severe cases it can hinder your daily routine.

The following are the types of vertigo:

1. Vertigo Perifer

Peripheral vertigo is a type of vertigo caused by disturbances in the hearing organ or inner ear which regulates body balance. The duration of peripheral vertigo symptoms tends to come and go quickly.

Peripheral Vertigo Symptoms

Common symptoms of peripheral vertigo are nausea, vomiting and excessive sweating. There are several specific symptoms of peripheral vertigo according to a person's condition, namely :

• If there is an infection or disease in the inner ear, you will feel pain in that area.
• In labyrinthitis and Meniere's disease, you experience hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears) in one or both ears along with vertigo.
• Eyes that move uncontrollably, but can disappear when you try to focus on looking at one point.

2. Vertigo Sentral

Central Vertigo, is a type of vertigo which is generally caused by disorders in the brain. However, just like other types of vertigo, central vertigo has general symptoms in the form of dizziness and a feeling of spinning. Treatment also needs to be done immediately to prevent complications that could occur.

Central Vertigo Symptoms

Peripheral vertigo can disappear in a short time. On the other hand, central vertigo often appears without showing symptoms in the sufferer's body. Central vertigo can last for a long time and cause more intense pain than peripheral vertigo.

A common symptom that occurs in people with central vertigo is that you cannot stand or walk without help. Apart from that, you also experience eye symptoms that cannot be controlled for a longer time, usually lasting up to months. Headaches and difficulty swallowing food are also common in people with central vertigo.

Vertigo Prevention

To help relieve vertigo and prevent it from recurring, here are some vertigo taboos that need to be avoided :

• Moving your head suddenly. One of the taboos for vertigo that needs to be avoided is moving your head suddenly too often, such as turning your head, looking up or looking down. This movement can cause the brain and inner ear to become sensitive, thus triggering vertigo.
• Changing body position too quickly. The habit of changing position too quickly, such as from lying down straight to standing or sitting then standing, can trigger low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). This can trigger a recurrence of vertigo. Therefore, if you often experience vertigo, especially after getting up from a lying position too quickly, avoid this vertigo taboo. When you wake up or after lying down, try sitting for about 5-10 minutes. After that, stand up slowly so that your blood pressure remains stable.
• Consume foods high in salt. Adults need a salt intake of around 5 grams per day or the equivalent of 1 teaspoon. Excessive salt intake can trigger a fluid imbalance in the body, thereby risking causing vertigo. To prevent vertigo, limit consumption of foods high in salt, such as fast food, dairy products, light snacks, canned foods and instant cereal. Apart from that, when you cook, avoid using excessive salt or MSG.
• Consuming foods high in sugar. Sugar is the body's main source of energy but can also cause vertigo when consumed in excess. This is because foods high in sugar can increase fluid pressure in the ear, causing vertigo. In order to reduce the risk of developing vertigo, you are advised to limit your intake of vertigo restrictions to around 50 grams per day or the equivalent of 4 tablespoons. Instead, choose energy sources in the form of complex carbohydrates that come from nuts, seeds, potatoes and vegetables.
• Consuming caffeine. Consuming excessive caffeine can also increase the risk of vertigo. Caffeine is a diuretic so it can cause dehydration and worsen vertigo symptoms. Apart from that, this vertigo abstinence can also make blood pressure low and cause the head to feel spinning. Therefore, limit caffeinated foods or drinks, such as coffee, green tea, soda, cereal and chocolate, so that they do not exceed 400 milligrams per day.
• Consuming alcohol. Frequently consuming alcohol is also one of the taboos for vertigo. This is because alcohol can disrupt the balance of body fluids and cause dehydration. Both conditions can cause complaints in the form of vertigo.
• Smoking. Research shows that smokers are more susceptible to experiencing vertigo. The severity of vertigo also increases with the increase in the number of cigarettes smoked or the duration of smoking. This is because the chemicals in cigarettes can damage the blood vessels in the inner ear, which play a role in body balance. As a result, these blood vessels become inflamed and cause vertigo.
• Often eat late. Late meals cause the body to lack sugar, which is the main source of energy for the body. When the body lacks sugar or energy, it will be difficult for the brain to work properly, so complaints of dizziness, headaches, weakness and vertigo can recur more easily.

Therefore, avoid this vertigo taboo. You are advised to eat regularly. Outside of meal times, you can snack on healthy foods, such as fruit or nuts, to increase your energy intake.

The various vertigo restrictions above should be avoided to prevent this complaint from recurring. Apart from that, you are also advised to consume 8 glasses of water per day, have sufficient vitamin D intake of 15-20 micrograms per day, and do light exercise, such as walking, to prevent frequent recurrences of vertigo.

If you have implemented various vertigo restrictions but the complaints do not go away and are accompanied by chest pain, difficulty walking, fever, weakness in the arms or legs, and unbearable headaches, consult a doctor to get appropriate treatment.

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Reasons to Add Moringa Leaves to Your Beauty Regimen

Reasons to Add Moringa Leaves to Your Beauty Regimen

  January 08, 2025    Admin ✓

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Reasons to Add Moringa Leaves to Your Beauty Regimen, Moringa leaves, or often called moringa oleifera, are a plant that is widely known for its extraordinary health benefits. Not only are they good for general body health, Moringa leaves also have many benefits that can be obtained for maintaining beautiful skin and hair. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why you should consider adding moringa leaves to your beauty regimen.

1. Powerful Antioxidant

Moringa leaves contain powerful antioxidants such as quercetin and chlorophyll. These antioxidants will help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals which can cause premature aging and other skin damage. By consuming or applying Moringa leaves, you can also help fight the signs of premature aging and keep your skin healthy and glowing.

2. Increases the Fertility of Skin Cells

Moringa leaf extract has been proven to have an effect that stimulates the growth of new skin cells. It also helps in skin regeneration, making the skin look younger and fresher. Regular regeneration of skin cells also helps reduce signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Relieves Inflammation and Acne

The anti-inflammatory properties of Moringa leaves are one of the best things that can help relieve inflammation of the skin, including acne. The antioxidants in Moringa leaves themselves will help clean pores and reduce excessive oil production which can also cause acne. By consuming Moringa leaves or applying them topically, you can also reduce the appearance of acne and begin to improve the overall condition of your skin.

4. Maintain Skin Moisture

The vitamin and mineral content in Moringa leaves helps maintain the skin's natural moisture. This is a solution for those who have dry or parched skin due to environmental factors or age. By regularly using products containing Moringa leaf extract or making a natural mask from Moringa leaves, you can maintain soft and smooth skin all the time.

5. Supports Hair Health

Not only for the skin, Moringa leaves are beneficial for hair health. The vitamin and mineral content in Moringa leaves helps strengthen hair roots and increase hair growth. This makes hair look thicker and healthier. Apart from that, Moringa leaves also help keep the scalp healthy and this also reduces problems such as dandruff and dry scalp.

6. Cleans the skin and makes it brighter

Moringa leaf extract has natural cleansing properties that help cleanse the skin of dirt, dust and pollution. Deep cleansing helps the skin to breathe better and it improves the absorption of nutrients from other skin care products. Apart from that, Moringa leaves can also have a natural brightening effect on the skin, making it look brighter and radiant.

How to Add Moringa Leaves to Your Beauty Regimen

1. Direct Consumption

• Moringa Leaf Tea: Drinking moringa leaf tea regularly can provide a wide range of health benefits, including for your skin and hair. Boil fresh or dried Moringa leaves in hot water, strain, and drink like regular tea.
• Moringa Leaf Supplements: If it is difficult to find fresh Moringa leaves, you can look for Moringa leaf supplements which are available in health stores. Make sure first to follow the instructions for proper use.

2. Topical Use

• Face Mask: Crush fresh Moringa leaves or dry Moringa leaf powder and mix with a little water or yogurt to make a natural face mask. Apply to face and leave for approximately 15-20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
• Moringa Leaf Oil: Use Moringa leaf oil as a scrubbing oil for hair or skin. This oil helps moisturize and provide direct nutrition to the skin and hair.

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Easy Lung Detox

Easy Lung Detox

  January 06, 2025    Admin ✓

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Various ways to carry out lung detox that are easy to do, Lung detoxification is the process of cleaning the lungs from poisons, pollutants, and other harmful substances. Lungs are vital organs in the human respiratory system that are constantly exposed to air pollution, cigarette smoke, chemicals, and other particles. Lung detoxification can help reduce the risk of respiratory disease, increase lung capacity, and improve air quality.

Here is an easy way to detoxify the lungs :

1. Quit Smoking Immediately

The first step in lung detoxification is to stop smoking. Smoking is also the main cause of lung damage and causes various diseases including lung cancer, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Quitting smoking can also help reduce the damage that already exists in the lungs and stop further damage.

2. Doing Sports Regularly

Aerobic sports such as brisk walking, running, swimming, or cycling can certainly help improve blood circulation and strengthen the lungs. When exercising, the lungs work harder to provide oxygen to the body, so it will help clean the lungs of toxins and harmful substances. Do aerobic exercise to keep your lungs healthy.

3. Consume Foods That Have High Fiber

High-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts can help clear the respiratory system and improve lung function. Fiber helps bind and remove toxins through the digestive process, thus helping to cleanse the lungs.

4. Drink Enough Water

Drinking enough water is very important to maintain the health of the lungs and respiratory system in general. Water will help dilute the mucus and mucus that accumulates in the respiratory tract, making it easier to clean the lungs. Make sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your body well hydrated.

5. Do Breathing Exercises Regularly

Breathing exercises such as the pursed lips breathing technique or coughing breathing exercises will be able to help clear the accumulated mucus. This is also a breathing technique specifically designed to help strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve lung function.

6. Consumption of Foods Rich in Antioxidants

Foods rich in antioxidants such as berries, tomatoes, and green tea can also help fight oxidative damage and reduce inflammation in the body. Antioxidants help protect lung cells from damage caused by free radicals and other harmful substances.

7. Practice Sauna or Steam Room

The use of a sauna or steam room can help clear the lungs by expanding the airways and increasing sweat production. This helps remove toxins and harmful substances through sweat, thus also helping to clean the lungs naturally.

8. Set a Clean Environment

Make sure first to keep the environment around you clean and free from other harmful substances such as cigarette smoke, dust, and other pollution. Use an air filter in your home to clean the air from pollutants and particles that can damage the lungs.

9. Get enough rest and sleep

Adequate rest is very important to maintain the health of the lungs and respiratory system as a whole. Make sure to sleep at least 7-9 hours every night to give your body time to start recovering and repairing itself normally.

10. Avoid Exposure to Secondhand Smoke

Passive cigarette smoke is a substance that can damage the lungs and increase the risk of respiratory diseases. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke by staying away from smoking environments and asking friends or even family members who smoke not to smoke indoors.

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EAR DRUMS

EAR DRUMS

  January 01, 2025    Admin ✓

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Symptoms and How to Prevent Ruptured Eardrums

The eardrum is the most important structure in the ear that acts as a barrier between the outer ear and the middle ear. It also plays a very important role in the hearing process by vibrating the sounds received into the middle ear. A ruptured or torn eardrum can cause serious hearing problems and can also affect quality of life.

Symptoms of a Ruptured Eardrum

• Ear Pain: Sharp or dull pain in the ear is the main symptom of a ruptured eardrum. This pain may be accompanied by discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Hearing Loss: The impact of a ruptured eardrum is hearing loss. The degree of hearing loss varies depending on how severe the damage is.
• Fluid Draining from the Ear: A ruptured eardrum often causes fluid to drain from the ear. This fluid may be pus, blood, or clear fluid, depending on the cause of the rupture.

Causes of a Ruptured Eardrum

• Ear Infection (Otitis Media): Middle ear infection or otitis media is one of the main causes of a ruptured eardrum. This infection causes a buildup of pus in the middle ear, which can press on and rupture the eardrum.
• Sudden Ear Pressure: Sudden changes in pressure, such as when flying, diving, or experiencing a loud explosion, can cause the eardrum to rupture. This is often known as barotrauma or pressure trauma.
• Physical Trauma: Direct injury to the ear, such as being hit by a hard object or a blow to the ear, can rupture the eardrum. This also includes inserting a foreign object into the ear the wrong way.
• Sinus Infection or Flu: A sinus infection or flu can cause fluid and pressure to build up in the middle ear, which can eventually lead to a ruptured eardrum.

How to Prevent a Ruptured Eardrum

1. Protect Your Ears from Increased Pressure

• Use Ear Protection When Flying: When flying, use earplugs or the gum-chewing technique to help equalize the pressure in your ears and prevent barotrauma.
• Avoid Diving in Unhealthy Conditions: If you dive, make sure you do so using the correct technique and do not have an active ear or sinus infection.

2. Watch Out for Ear Infections

• Treat Infections Immediately: If you experience symptoms of an ear infection such as pain, discharge, or hearing loss, consult a doctor immediately to get proper treatment and prevent complications.
• Maintain Respiratory Health: Treating a sinus infection or cold can help prevent fluid buildup and pressure in the ear that can damage the eardrum.

3. Avoid Ear Trauma

• Do Not Use Harmful Cleaning Tools: Avoid using cotton buds or other ear cleaning tools that can damage the eardrum. Use gentle and safe cleaning methods.
• Protect Ears from Injury: If you participate in physical activities that have the potential to cause ear injury, use appropriate ear protectors or protection.

4. Use Ear Drops with Caution

• Follow Directions for Use: If you need to use ear drops, be sure to follow the directions for use carefully. Do not use ear drops if you are unsure whether your eardrum is intact.

First Aid Steps for a Bursted Eardrum

1. Avoid Putting Objects Into the Ear

• Do Not Use Cotton Buds: Avoid inserting any objects into the ear that may cause further irritation or worsen the condition.

2. Prevent Additional Infections

• Keep Moist: Avoid exposing the affected ear to water to prevent additional infection. Use ear protection when showering or swimming if necessary.

3. Take Pain Relief Medication

• Painkillers: You can take painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to reduce ear pain until you get medical treatment.

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