Summer is in full swing, and that means more time spent in the water trying to beat the heat. However, with increased swimming comes a higher risk of otitis externa, more commonly known as swimmer’s ear. In this blog, we break down the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods for swimmer’s ear to keep your family healthy this summer.
What is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear is a bacterial or fungal infection of the outer ear canal, the tube that connects the outer ear to the eardrum. The infection is caused by water being trapped in the ear canal, often as a result from swimming. Although the infection can happen to anyone year-round, it is most common in children under 15 years of age during the summer months when swimming tends to increase in frequency.
Swimmer Ear Symptoms
While swimmer’s ear symptoms are similar to other types of ear infections, they differ in that the infection is located in the outer ear canal. Below are some common symptoms to look for:
- Swelling, itchiness, and visible redness of the outer ear canal
- Ear pain and muffled hearing
- Fluid buildup
- Pain in the ear that is also felt in the face, neck or the side of the head
- Fever and swollen lymph nodes
Swimmer’s ear infections will not get better without treatment. If you notice any of the above symptoms or have ear pain that worsens over time, consult a medical professional.
Is Swimmer’s Ear Contagious?
Swimmer’s ear is not contagious and does not spread from person to person through contact. Instead, it is caused by water buildup in the outer ear that allows fungi and bacteria to grow.
You are more likely to develop swimmer’s ear from swimming in freshwater ponds, lakes, and creeks than you are in a treated swimming pool.
How is Swimmer’s Ear Diagnosed?
If left untreated, swimmer’s ear can spread infection to deeper layers of skin or contribute to chronic ear infections. It’s important to note that swimmer’s ear will not go away on its own, but it’s unlikely to cause complications as long as it’s treated.
You can visit your primary care physician or an urgent care clinic for swimmer’s ear testing. Your medical provider will perform a simple exam to check both of your ears using an otoscope. During this exam, they will check for signs of middle ear infections to determine the root cause of your ear pain. If there is drainage coming from your ear, they may run a sample test to help determine the cause.
How to Treat Swimmer’s Ear
Once swimmer’s ear is diagnosed, you will be prescribed ear drops to kill the fungus or bacteria at the root of the infection. You may also be advised to take an over-the-counter medication to help minimize pain. Once treatment starts, it generally takes up to 10 days for symptoms to clear.
Preventing Swimmer’s Ear
The best way to prevent swimmer’s ear is to thoroughly dry your ears after spending time in the water by tilting your head and gently pulling down the lobe of the ear. Inserting cotton swabs into your ear canal should be avoided. Instead, use a cotton ball to catch excess water from your ears and consider wearing earplugs when swimming.
Integrity Urgent Care for Swimmer’s Ear
Don’t let ear infections keep you and your family from having fun this summer. Rely on Integrity Urgent Care for prompt treatment for swimmer’s ear and a wide range of non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses that require immediate care. Find a location near you for an appointment or walk-in services.
