What is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is an infection of the ear canal, which is a slender channel about one-inch long that leads from the outer ear to the eardrum. Symptoms of swimmer’s ear can include pain, redness, and swelling of the ear canal and an itchy feeling in the ear. Pain when tugging the earlobe, or when chewing food, is also a symptom. Some patients report temporary hearing loss or their ears feeling “full.” Patients may experience symptoms differently and at different levels of severity. It is important to note that swimmer’s ear is different from a middle ear infection, which is common in young children. If you or your child has signs of swimmer’s ear, it is important to visit Statcare Urgent Care for treatment.
What Causes Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear is an infection that occurs when water remains trapped in the ear canal. This moist environment is ideal for the growth of bacteria, and, in rare cases, fungus. Some patients get swimmer’s ear from swimming, although it can happen from bathing, showering, or even sweating. A lack of earwax due to aggressive cleaning with cotton swabs or small objects can cause swimmer’s ear. Earwax limits the growth of bacteria and is a natural barrier to moisture. Skin conditions such as eczema, and chemicals from hairspray or dyes, can also prompt this condition.
7 Tips For Preventing Swimmer’s Ear
- Never put anything in the ear canal (cotton swabs, paper clips, liquids or even your finger). This can damage or irritate the skin.
- Leave ear wax in the canal.
- Do not use ear plugs. They can irritate the ear canal.
- If you swim or surf, use a bathing cap to keep water out of your ears.
- Keep your ears as dry as possible. Use a towel to dry your ears well after swimming or showering.
- Help the water run out of your ears by turning your head to each side and pulling the earlobe in different directions.
- Blow dry your ears on a low setting, holding the dryer 12 inches away.
If you or a family member experience any of the above symptoms, walk-in to any of our clinics for an evaluation and talk to our health care providers. No appointment is necessary at our clinics and you’ll only wait minutes to be seen. You can call ahead at ((917) 310-3371 and let us know you’re on the way or you can check in online.
