I el Ask Dr. Vieder LAKES URGENT CARE When your health concerns can't wait. How can I help my daughter from getting swimmer's ear and how do I know when to see a doctor? Perspiration, prolonged humid weather or water that remains in your ear after swimming can create a favorable environment for bacteria to grow and cause an infection of the external ear canal, frequently called "swimmers ear." It is more likely to occur when swimming in lakes and rivers where there are naturally occurring bacteria vs. a swimming pool, which is generally sterile due to chlorine. However, any substance that changes the acidity of the ear canal and the naturally occurring wax, can also lead to an infection. The key to avoiding infection is to keep the ear canal dry. If you believe an infection has begun, it is important to seek medical attention with your primary care physician (PCP) or at a certified urgent care center. They will generally prescribe an antibiotic eardrop to treat the infection and may need to insert a medical device called an "ear wick" to help treat the infection. Swimmers ear should not be treated with an oral antibiotic unless there are other significant complicating factors. What can I do to prevent or minimize the effects of heat rash? To help prevent heat rash, avoid situations that can lead to excessive sweating such as hot, humid environments. Heat rash usually heals by cooling the skin and avoiding exposure to the heat that caused it. Avoid strenuous exercise when it is very warm. In hot weather, use air-conditioning, fans, and cool showers and baths to stay cool. Dry your skin thoroughly and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes. Drink plenty of fluids to cool the body and to keep hydrated. See your doctor if you or your child has symptoms that last longer than a few days, the rash seems to be getting worse, or you notice signs of infection, such as: • Increased pain, swelling, redness or warmth around the affected area • Pus draining from the lesions • Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, neck or groin • A fever over 100 or a rash after beginning any new medication Always avoid using any oil based lotion or cream on the affected area as this may block the sweat glands. Ask Dr. Vieder page at LakesUrgentCare.com Dr. Sanford Vieder, DO, FACOEP, Medical Director at Lakes Urgent Care, West Bloomfield For more info, visit the 'PALM BEACH SUMMER SIZZLER SALE U pscale ConsiynrYic nt & Ariction Ho use ....„,.....--/ 20% OFF \ i ACCESSORIES With this coupon. Good through July 30, 2015. ller Meet Leslie Miller Rick Behar Julie Sundberg Deborah Slobin c Co-Owner of Managed Estates & Partner of Le Shoppe Too in Keego Harbor. PALM BEACH Leslie has a degree in Art from Wayne State University. She has been in the antique world since she was a teenager and specializes in i ~~ PATIO & CASUAL FURNITURE i~ collecting fine art and antiques. WE BUY AND CONSIGN FABULOUS MID CENTURY MODERN PIECES (248)-666-2880 3325 Orchard Lake Rd. Keego Harbor, MI 48320 9 7350 Highland Road (M-59) • Waterford www.PalmBeachPatio.com HOURS: M-Th 10-7- • T-W-F-S 10-6 • Sun 12-4 1994710 248.481.8884 Open 6 Days/Week Tue-Sat 12-6 Sun 12-4 1 info@leshoppe.net I www.leshoppe.net ,976.0 June 25 • 2015 39