Swimmer’s ear is a common condition that can occur after swimming or other water activities. Though it can cause discomfort, it is usually easy to treat if addressed early. In this guide, we’ll explain what swimmer’s ear is, its causes, symptoms, and how to treat and prevent it.
Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal caused by bacteria or fungi. The ear canal becomes inflamed and irritated, often due to prolonged water exposure. While this condition is most common among swimmers, it can affect anyone who spends time in water, particularly if the ear remains wet for extended periods.
Swimmer’s ear is caused by various factors that contribute to moisture and bacteria entering the ear. Common causes include:
Recognising the symptoms of swimmer’s ear early can help you seek treatment quickly. Common symptoms include:
If you suspect swimmer’s ear, several treatment options are available to relieve symptoms and clear the infection.
Over-the-counter ear drops are often effective for treating swimmer’s ear. These drops typically contain alcohol or acid to dry out excess moisture and restore the balance in the ear canal. Some ear drops may also include antibiotics or steroids to reduce inflammation and combat infection. Always follow the instructions on the packaging or consult a healthcare provider if unsure.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can help alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with swimmer’s ear. These medications help reduce inflammation and provide relief from ear pain.
In more severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe oral or intravenous antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection. If the infection is fungal in nature, antifungal treatment may be recommended instead. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics or antifungal medication, even if symptoms improve before you finish the treatment.
In rare cases, if the infection is severe and does not respond to other treatments, surgery may be required to drain any fluid from the ear or remove any infection from the ear canal. This is typically reserved for cases where the infection has spread or caused significant damage.
While most cases of swimmer’s ear can be managed at home, there are certain symptoms that warrant medical attention. If you experience significant pain, fever, or swelling around the ear, or notice pus or blood drainage, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. If symptoms persist or worsen, professional treatment may be necessary.
For expert advice and treatment, speak to a local THCP audiologist. Our team is available to assist with any concerns regarding ear health.
Prevention is key to avoiding swimmer’s ear. Here are a few tips to help you keep your ears safe:
To prevent swimmer’s ear, keeping your ears dry is crucial. If you swim regularly, consider wearing ear plugs or a swimming cap for added protection. After swimming, tilt your head to drain any water from your ears and gently dry the outer ear with a towel.
At The Hearing Care Partnership, our hearing care experts will be able to help provide you with the very best hearing protection, including custom-fitted ear plugs for swimming.
It isn’t advisable to insert any cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects into your ear canal. These can push wax further into the ear, potentially causing blockages and infections. Always consult a healthcare professional for best advice and to avoid unnecessary damage to your ears which can often lead to irreversible hearing loss.
Whenever you expose your ears to water, make sure it’s clean and free from harmful bacteria. Swimming in chlorinated pools is safer than in lakes or ponds, which may harbour bacteria or other contaminants.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of swimmer’s ear or want to learn more about custom hearing protection, our friendly team at The Hearing Care Partnership is here to help. We offer expert advice, support, and care for your ear health.
To book an appointment or speak to one of our specialists, call 0800 52 00 546 or book online today.