To interested list members.
I do not intend to pontificate, but am concerned about
some of the postings relating to the introduction of Isopropyl Alcohol into the
human ear as a treatment for swimmer's ear, et al. First I would
caution---this substance---is a mild tissue burner and is somewhat hazardous to
introduce into the ear.....especially if there are exposed underlying tissues
deep inside the ear (e.g. infection-induced irritations), and/or microscopic
perforations in the drum proper (the drum WILL work with very small
perforations present). Isopropyl IS NOT nearly as effective a drying agent, as
many are led to believe. By law, it can contain as much as 30% free H/2/0.
With such a high water fraction, it is necessary to employ an additional
substance possessing a very high hygroscopic index (hungry for moisture) to
negate against the effects of excess moisture in such an enclosed,
"biologically active", area as the ear tunnel.
Our research has revealed that plain honey (warmed to body
temperature) is orders of magnitude superior to ANY TISSUE BURNING SUBSTANCE,
and enormously preferable from a safety standpoint. (Honey is a splendid
bacteriostatic).
Our previous primate/human volunteer-based research has
revealed that if drying agents are absolutely required, 190 proof grain
(Ethyl) alcohol is, an order of magnitude, superior to ANY form of Isopropyl
Alcohol---or iodine. Possessing 5%, or less, of co-mingling fluids, grain
alcohol (Ethyl) is more hygroscopic---than is Isopropyl, is non-toxic (in small
medicinal quantities) and is harmoniously tolerated by the body systems.
Although we found a product called "Everclear", to be the most
consistant in quality standards, all of those employed proved quite
satisfactory.
An interesting side-note; 190 proof grain alcohol makes a splendid
substance for use in cleaning CD ROM discs----both because of its organic
solvent qualities and its capability of removing residual moisture---following
cleaning by detergent-based cleaners. This is a little-known technique used by
professional technicians.
I hope this information may be of value to some.
Sincerely. Brooks Bradley.
[email protected] wrote:
> In a message dated 99-07-02 11:15:00 EDT, you write:
>
> << Well, if it works, it works. Isopropyl alcohol is a substance that, I
> believe, damages the thymus and probably other areas of the body. I don't
> even like putting it on my skin. >>
>
> Could vodka be used as a substitute for the isopropyl? Would it help the
> evaporation? We use the iso and vinegar mix at my house for swimmer's ear.
> I didn't know it was harmful.
> Samm
>
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