Summer fun in the water can quickly turn uncomfortable when swimmer’s ear strikes. Medically known as otitis externa, swimmer’s ear is an outer ear canal infection that often flares up after prolonged moisture exposure. It may start as a mild itch but can escalate to intense pain, discharge, and temporary hearing loss. This guide covers everything from causes and symptoms to prevention and treatment—so you can enjoy the season without the setback of ear infections.
What’s swimmer’s ear?
Swimmer’s ear affects your outer ear canal, which runs from your eardrum to the outside of your head. It’s commonly caused by the development of fungus or bacteria encouraged by excess moisture, such as water from swimming, showering, or even humid weather.
Unlike middle ear infections, which are more common in children, swimmer’s ear affects only the external ear canal. It’s characterized by symptoms such as:
- Persistent itching inside the ear
- Redness or swelling
- Pain, especially when tugging the ear or pressing on the outer ear
- Drainage, which may appear clear, yellow, or pus-like
- Muffled hearing due to blockage or inflammation
Swimmer’s ear can affect anyone but is especially common during warmer months when water activities increase.
Common causes and risk factors
While the name suggests it’s only caused by swimming, swimmer’s ear can develop in several ways:
- Trapped Water: Moisture left behind in the ear canal creates a perfect environment for bacteria and fungi.
- Ear Canal Injuries: Scratching the ear with fingernails, cotton swabs, or hairpins can break the skin and introduce infection.
- Earwax Blockage: While earwax is protective, too much can lead to buildup, irritation, and bacterial growth.
- Devices: Wearing earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs for long periods may irritate the canal and contribute to infection.
- Weakened Immune System: People with diabetes, eczema, or other immune-related conditions are more susceptible.
- Allergies and Skin Conditions: Eczema or allergic reactions can make the ear canal more vulnerable to infection.
Preventing swimmer’s ear before it starts
Prevention is essential in avoiding the discomfort of swimmer’s ear. Here are some steps you can take:
- Keep Ears Dry: Following swimming or bathing, dry your ears gently with a towel. Tilt your head to let water drain out completely.
- Avoid Inserting Objects: Don’t use cotton swabs or your fingers to clean inside the ears.
- Use Protective Earplugs: Consider waterproof earplugs if you swim frequently.
- Maintain Clean Ear Devices: Sanitize hearing aids or earbuds regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Use Drying Drops: Ask your ENT specialist about using over-the-counter drying solutions, especially after water exposure.
Swimmer’s ear FAQs: what to know if symptoms appear
If you’re experiencing symptoms, you may be wondering what steps to take. Here are answers to common questions:
Can swimmer’s ear go away without treatment?
Mild cases might clear up with home care, but moderate to severe infections often require medical treatment to avoid complications.
How is swimmer’s ear treated?
Most cases are resolved with antibiotic or antifungal ear drops, depending on the cause. Your provider may also recommend ear cleaning or pain relief medication.
Is ear pain after swimming always a sign of swimmer’s ear?
Not always. Pain might also stem from middle ear infections, barotrauma, or wax impaction. If you’re unsure, consult an ENT specialist for an accurate diagnosis.
When to see an ENT specialist
Ignoring swimmer’s ear can lead to prolonged symptoms and potential complications like spread of infection or chronic otitis externa. If you or your child experiences persistent ear discomfort, discharge, or hearing changes, especially after swimming, schedule an evaluation.
A trusted ENT specialist in your area can provide a thorough assessment, effective treatment, and personalized advice to prevent future flare-ups.