[4].png)
Summer fun shouldn’t come with ear pain—but if you or your child experiences discomfort after swimming, you may be dealing with swimmer’s ear. This common outer ear infection, medically known as otitis externa, tends to flare up during the warmer months when swimming, surfing, and water sports are at their peak.
At ENT and Allergy Associates, our board-certified ENT specialists are here to help you enjoy the season without painful interruptions. Read on to learn how to recognize the symptoms, prevent swimmer’s ear, and when to seek expert care.
What Is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, caused by trapped water that allows bacteria or fungi to grow. It’s especially common during summer due to increased water exposure from swimming in pools, lakes, and oceans.
Keyword variations: outer ear infection, swimmer’s ear in children, ear infection from swimming
Common Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear
If you’ve recently been swimming and notice any of the following symptoms, you may have swimmer’s ear:
- Ear pain, especially when touching or pulling the outer ear
- Itching in the ear canal
- Swelling or redness around the ear
- Fluid or pus drainage from the ear
- Muffled hearing or a blocked feeling in the ear
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes in severe cases
Early detection is key—delaying treatment can lead to worsening symptoms or even spread of infection.
What Causes Swimmer’s Ear?
The most common cause is water getting trapped in the ear canal, creating a moist environment where bacteria or fungi thrive. Other contributing factors include:
- Swimming in untreated or dirty water
- Excessive ear cleaning with cotton swabs
- Ear canal injuries or irritation
- Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
Pro tip: Avoid inserting objects into your ears, including earbuds and Q-tips, which can scratch the delicate skin inside the ear canal.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Swimmer’s ear can affect anyone, but children, teens, and frequent swimmers are at higher risk. People who use hearing aids, have narrow ear canals, or suffer from chronic skin conditions are also more susceptible.
How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear
Prevention starts with protecting your ears before and after swimming:
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing by tilting your head and gently drying with a towel.
- Use earplugs designed for swimming to keep water out.
- Avoid inserting foreign objects into the ear canal.
Consult your ENT specialist about using over-the-counter drying drops (often a mix of alcohol and vinegar) to prevent moisture buildup.
When to See an ENT Specialist
If you notice persistent ear pain, drainage, or hearing loss after swimming, it’s time to see an ENT.
At ENT and Allergy Associates, our ear, nose, and throat doctors provide fast, effective relief. We may prescribe:
- Prescription ear drops with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication
- Ear canal cleaning to remove debris and improve healing
- Oral antibiotics for more advanced infections
Don’t Let Swimmer’s Ear Disrupt Your Summer Fun
Swimmer’s ear is common, but it’s also highly preventable and treatable. By taking a few simple steps to protect your ears, you can keep enjoying the water all summer long.
If you or your child develops symptoms of swimmer’s ear, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced ENT specialists. At ENT and Allergy Associates, we’re here to help you stay healthy, comfortable, and ready for everything summer brings.
Book your appointment today and get expert care for ear infections, hearing issues, and more.