Swimmer's Ear: Prevention and Treatment Tips

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal often caused by water trapped in the ear after swimming. This moist environment allows bacteria or fungi to thrive, leading to discomfort, pain, and sometimes serious complications if untreated. Understanding prevention and treatment strategies can help protect against this common condition.

Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, the tube connecting the ear’s opening to the eardrum.

• Caused By:

• Bacteria (most common)

• Fungi (less common)

• Triggers:

• Moisture trapped in the ear

• Scratches or abrasions in the ear canal

• Early Symptoms:

• Itching in the ear canal

• Mild discomfort or redness

• Clear, odorless discharge

• Advanced Symptoms:

• Severe pain, especially when pulling on the ear or chewing

• Swelling of the ear canal

• Reduced hearing

• Yellow or green pus with a foul smell

• Swimmers or frequent water sports participants

• Individuals with narrow ear canals or excessive earwax

• Use of hearing aids or earplugs that trap moisture

• Scratches caused by cotton swabs, fingernails, or foreign objects

1. Keep Ears Dry:

• Use a towel to dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing.

• Tilt your head to each side to allow water to drain out.

2. Use Earplugs:

• Wear waterproof earplugs or swim caps to keep water out.

3. Avoid Inserting Objects:

• Do not use cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal.

4. Apply Preventive Drops:

• Use over-the-counter ear drops with acetic acid or isopropyl alcohol to dry the ear and prevent infections.

5. Avoid Polluted Water:

• Swim in clean, well-maintained pools or bodies of water.

1. Over-the-Counter Remedies:

• Use acetic acid or alcohol-based ear drops to relieve mild symptoms.

2. Prescription Medications:

• Antibiotic Ear Drops: Effective against bacterial infections.

• Antifungal Ear Drops: For fungal infections.

• Steroid Drops: To reduce inflammation and itching.

3. Pain Management:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

4. Avoid Water Exposure:

• Keep the ear dry during treatment by avoiding swimming or prolonged bathing.

5. Remove Obstructions:

• A healthcare provider may need to clean debris or wax buildup from the ear canal.

Consult a healthcare professional if:

• Symptoms worsen or do not improve after 48 hours of treatment.

• There is severe pain, fever, or spreading redness around the ear.

• You experience hearing loss or significant swelling.

• Chronic otitis externa (persistent infection)

• Spread of infection to surrounding tissues (malignant otitis externa)

• Temporary or permanent hearing loss in severe cases

Swimmer’s ear is a preventable and treatable condition that can cause significant discomfort if ignored. By keeping your ears dry, avoiding irritants, and using preventive ear drops, you can minimize the risk of infection. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice promptly to avoid complications. Protect your ears to ensure a pain-free and enjoyable swimming experience.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Prevention of Swimmer’s Ear.

• American Academy of Otolaryngology. Otitis Externa: Diagnosis and Treatment.

• Mayo Clinic. Swimmer’s Ear Overview and Management.