Swimmer’s ear is an infection that affects the outer ear canal, the tube between the outer ear and the eardrum. The medical term for this condition is Otitis Externa.The infection usually happens when water gets trapped in the ear, which lets bacteria or fungi grow. This infection can cause pain, itching, and swelling. While it’s called “swimmer’s ear,” you don’t have to swim to get it. The condition can happen from any water exposure, like showering or bathing.
What Causes Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear can be affected by a few things; the most common reason is water getting stuck in the ear. Here are the main causes:
Trapped Water
Water can get trapped inside the ear canal after swimming, bathing, or even washing your hair. When water stays in the ear, it creates a moist, warm space where bacteria or fungi can grow. Oftentimes a buildup of earwax contributes to the water getting trapped.
Scratches or Cuts in the Ear Canal
The skin inside your ear is very delicate. Scratching it with a cotton swab, fingernail, or even a hearing aid can create small cuts or scrapes. These cuts make it easier for bacteria to enter and cause an infection.
Sensitivity to Products
Sometimes, people can react to products like hair sprays, shampoos, or even earrings. This reaction can irritate the ear canal, making it more likely for an infection to develop.
Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear usually starts with mild symptoms, but if left untreated, the symptoms can get worse. Here are some signs to watch out for:
Ear Pain
Pain in the ear is the most common symptom of a swimmer’s ear. The pain might worsen if you tug on your earlobe or press the area in front of the ear. Sometimes, the pain can spread to your neck or face.
Itching
One of the early signs of a swimmer’s ear is a constant itching sensation inside the ear. Scratching may provide temporary relief, but it can make the infection worse.
Fluid or Discharge from the Ear
You might notice some fluid or discharge leaking from the infected ear. This fluid can be clear, yellow, or even pus-like. Sometimes, the discharge can have a bad smell.
Hearing Problems
Swimmer’s ear can cause swelling inside the ear canal, which may block sound from reaching your eardrum. As a result, you might experience temporary hearing loss.
How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear
You can reduce your chances of getting a swimmer’s ear by taking a few simple steps. Protecting your ears from excess moisture and being gentle when cleaning them can go a long way.
Keep Your Ears Dry
After swimming or showering, dry your ears. Tilt your head to each side to let any trapped water drain out, or use a clean towel to dry your ears gently. You can also use a blow-dryer on a cool, low setting aimed at your ear canals.
Use Earplugs When Swimming
If you spend a lot of time swimming, consider wearing waterproof earplugs. These can help keep water out of your ears and prevent infections.
Be Careful with Cotton Swabs
Using cotton swabs to clean your ears is tempting; they can push ear wax deeper into the ear canal and cause damage. Instead, gently clean the outer ear with a cloth.
Avoid Irritating Products
Try to avoid using products like hairspray or shampoo near your ears. These products can cause irritation or allergic reactions, which make the ear more likely to get infected.
When to See a Doctor
If you think you have swimmer’s ear, it’s important to seek medical treatmentIf left untreated, the infection can worsen and cause more serious problems.
Symptoms That Need Medical Attention
- Severe ear pain that doesn’t go away
- Hearing loss or a feeling of fullness in the ear
- Fever or swelling in the ear or face
- Pus or fluid that has a foul odor
Treating Swimmer’s Ear
Most cases of swimmer’s ear can be treated with prescription ear drops. These drops usually contain antibiotics to kill the infection and steroids to reduce swelling.
Using Ear Drops
You’ll need to use the ear drops for about a week. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure the infection heals completely. It’s important to keep your ear dry during this time.
Pain Relief
While the ear heals, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to help with the discomfort. Avoid putting anything into your ear, like cotton balls, as this can irritate the infection.
Audiologist in Austin, TX | Austin Hearing Aid Center
Swimmer’s ear is a common ear infection caused by water getting trapped in the ear canal. It can cause pain, itching, and fluid drainage. Keeping your ears dry and avoiding injury to the ear canal can help prevent swimmer’s ear. If you notice any symptoms of swimmer’s ear, it is recommended that you visit an audiologist for evaluation and a physician for treatment.
If you’re experiencing ear pain, itching, or any symptoms of swimmer’s ear, don’t wait to get help. Austin Hearing Aid Center in Austin, TX, can assist you with any ear health concerns. Call today to schedule an appointment and protect your ears!