Table 5. Patient Information for Topical Therapy of AOE
(continued)
Frequently Asked
Question Answer
Are there any activity
restrictions or special
precautions that will help
my ear recover faster?
Avoid scratching or touching the ear, and do not insert
anything into the ear canal, including cotton-tipped swabs.
Cover the opening of ear canal with an earplug or cotton
(with petroleum jelly) prior to showering or hair washing
to minimize water entry. Check with your doctor regarding
swimming or other water activities that may take place during,
or soon aer, your infection.
Do eardrops have side
effects that I should be
aware of ?
Eardrops are, in general, very safe and well tolerated. Some
people report local rash, itching, irritation, or discomfort, but
it is rarely bad enough to require stopping the medication.
If you taste the eardrops, it means there is likely a hole or
perforation of the eardrum, so inform your doctor (if you have
not already done so). Also call your doctor if the drops become
painful or you develop unexpected symptoms.
