If you have ever spent a summer at the pool or beach, you may have heard of swimmer’s ear. It is a painful ear infection that happens when water gets trapped in the ear canal. This warm, moist space makes it easy for bacteria to grow. While swimmer’s ear is common, it should not be ignored. With the right care, you can find relief and protect your hearing.
What is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear, also called otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal. Unlike an inner ear infection, which often affects children during colds, swimmer’s ear starts at the opening of the ear and travels inward.
It usually happens when water stays in the ear after swimming, bathing, or even showering. This trapped water breaks down the skin’s natural barrier and allows bacteria or fungi to grow.
People of all ages can get swimmer’s ear, though it is especially common in children and teens who spend lots of time in the water.
Common Symptoms
The first sign is often itchiness inside the ear. As the infection grows, pain begins, and it may worsen when you tug on your ear or chew food.
Other symptoms of swimmer’s ear:
- Redness/swelling of the ear canal
- Fluid drainage that may either be clear, yellow, or pus-like
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
In more severe cases, the pain can spread to the face or neck. If left untreated, swimmer’s ear may become serious and lead to lasting hearing problems.
How It is Treated
The good news is that swimmer’s ear can usually be treated easily. An audiologist or doctor will look inside your ear and may clean out debris or fluid. Treatment often includes prescription ear drops that fight bacteria or fungi and reduce swelling.
If the infection is painful, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. In some cases, your provider may place a small wick in the ear to help the medicine reach deep inside. With the right care, most people start to feel better within a few days.
It is very important not to put cotton swabs or other objects into the ear. This can push bacteria deeper, make the infection worse, and even damage the ear canal or eardrum.
Prevention Tips
Since swimmer’s ear is often caused by trapped water, prevention starts with keeping the ears dry:
- Tilt your head and gently tug your ear to help water drain after swimming or bathing
- Dry the outer ear with a towel, but avoid sticking anything inside
- Consider using custom-fit swim plugs to keep water out, especially if you swim often
- Avoid swimming in dirty or polluted water, which may carry more bacteria
- Do not scratch or over-clean your ears, as this can remove the natural protective oils
These simple steps lower your chances of getting swimmer’s ear while still allowing you to enjoy time in the water.
Why See an Audiologist?
While mild cases may seem like no big deal, swimmer’s ear should not be ignored. An audiologist can check your ear canal, rule out other causes of pain, and provide treatment. They also understand how ear infections can affect your hearing health in the long run.
Audiologists can also recommend custom ear protection for swimmers, which is a smart way to prevent future infections.
With professional care, you not only get relief from the current infection but also learn how to protect your ears moving forward.
Inman Audiology connects you to an expert audiologist in Troy, MI.
Living Comfortably with Healthy Ears
Swimmer’s ear is common, but it does not have to stop you from enjoying the water. By knowing the signs, getting the right treatment, and following prevention tips, you can keep your ears healthy all year long.
If you or your child has ear pain, drainage, or muffled hearing, do not wait for it to go away on its own.
Reach out to an audiologist. With the help of an audiologist, you can heal quickly and get back to the activities you enjoy. Healthy ears make every season more enjoyable.
If swimmer’s ear is troubling you, the right care can bring comfort and peace of mind.
Contact Inman Audiology today to schedule a check-up or hearing test in Troy, MI!