Swimmer's Ear (Otitis Externa)
Swimmer's ear, medically known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal that runs from the eardrum to the outside of the head. It is most commonly caused by bacteria that thrive in moist environments, and frequently occurs after water gets trapped in the ear canal. Swimmer's ear affects millions of people annually and is particularly common during the summer months and in tropical climates.
Symptoms
Causes
- Water trapped in the ear canal creating a moist environment for bacterial growth
- Bacterial infection (most commonly Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus)
- Damage to the ear canal lining from cotton swabs, fingernails, or hearing aids
- Fungal infection (otomycosis) in some cases
- Allergic reactions to hair products, earrings, or hearing aid materials
Risk Factors
- Frequent swimming or water sports, especially in polluted water
- Narrow ear canals that trap water more easily
- Use of hearing aids, earbuds, or ear plugs
- Excessive ear cleaning with cotton swabs or other objects
- Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis affecting the ear
- Living in warm, humid climates
Diagnosis
- Otoscopic examination of the ear canal and eardrum
- Assessment of pain with manipulation of the outer ear (tragal tenderness test)
- Culture of ear discharge in recurrent or severe infections
- CT scan in suspected cases of malignant (necrotizing) otitis externa
Treatment
- Prescription antibiotic ear drops (ciprofloxacin/dexamethasone, ofloxacin)
- Ear canal cleaning by a healthcare provider to allow drops to reach the infection
- Pain management with acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Ear wick placement for severely swollen ear canals to deliver medication
- Antifungal ear drops for fungal otitis externa
- Keeping the ear dry during treatment
Prevention
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing using a towel or low-heat hair dryer
- Use earplugs or a swim cap while swimming
- Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into the ear canal
- Apply a few drops of a rubbing alcohol and white vinegar mixture after swimming to prevent bacterial growth
- Treat underlying skin conditions affecting the ear
When to See a Doctor
- Ear pain is severe or accompanied by fever
- Symptoms persist or worsen after 2-3 days of home treatment
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system and develop ear symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
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