Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal, which runs from the eardrum to the outside of the head. It is often caused by water that remains in the ear after swimming or bathing, creating a moist environment that allows bacteria or fungi to grow. Cotton swabs, fingers, or earphones can also scratch or injure the ear canal and cause swimmer's ear.
The symptoms of swimmer’s ear usually start with mild itching, redness, and discomfort in the ear canal. As the infection progresses, the symptoms can worsen and include:
Increased pain and swelling in the ear
Drainage of fluid or pus from the ear
Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
Reduced or muffled hearing
Fever
Swelling of the outer ear or lymph nodes in the neck
If left untreated, swimmer’s ear can lead to complications such as:
Damage or rupture of the eardrum
Spread of infection to the middle ear, bones, or skin around the ear
Temporary or permanent hearing loss
Facial nerve paralysis
An otoscope is a lighted instrument used by doctors to examine the ear canal in order to diagnose swimmer's ear. A doctor may also take a sample of fluid or tissue from the ear and send it to a lab for testing to identify the type and cause of the infection. The doctor will look for signs of inflammation, discharge, debris, and damage to the ear.
The treatment of swimmer’s ear depends on the severity and stage of the infection. The main goals of treatment are to:
Stop the infection and kill the bacteria or fungi
Reduce the inflammation and pain in the ear
Clean the ear canal and remove any debris or pus
Prevent complications and recurrence of the infection
The most common treatment for swimmer’s ear is ear drops that contain a combination of:
Acidic solution to restore the normal pH balance of the ear canal and inhibit bacterial growth
Steroid to reduce swelling and inflammation
Antibiotic or antifungal to kill the infection-causing microorganisms
The doctor will instruct the patient on how to use the ear drops properly and how often to apply them. To ensure that the drops reach the entire ear canal, the patient may have to lie on their side for a few minutes with the infected ear up. Any excess fluid or drainage from the ear may need to be absorbed using cotton balls or gauze.
In some cases, the doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics or painkillers to treat the infection or relieve the symptoms. In addition, the doctor may use suction devices or special instruments to remove debris or pus from the ear canal, which may block ear drops or worsen the infection.
After the infection is completely healed, the patient should avoid getting the ear wet or inserting anything into the ear. He or she should also follow up with the doctor regularly to monitor the progress of the treatment.
Swimmer’s ear can be prevented by taking some simple measures to keep the ear canal dry and clean. These include:
After swimming, bathing, or showering, dry the ears thoroughly. It is also possible to dry the ears with a hair dryer set on a low setting, but not too close or too hot, by gently tilting your head to each side and pulling the earlobes in different directions.
Avoiding swimming or diving in dirty or polluted water. If possible, wear earplugs or a swimming cap to protect the ears from water exposure.
You should avoid scratching the ear canal with objects such as cotton swabs, fingers, or earphones. These can damage the skin and allow bacteria to enter. Instead, wipe the outer ear gently with a soft cloth or tissue.
Using products that can irritate the ear canal, such as hairspray, perfume, or soap, can alter the pH balance and natural defenses of the canal, making it more prone to infection.
It is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms of ear infection, such as pain, itching, redness, swelling, or discharge. Early treatment prevents the infection from getting worse and causing complications.
