Key takeaways
- Infection of the outer ear canal.
- Trapped water is the trigger.
- ~2.4 million US visits a year.
- Keep ears dry.
- See a doctor for pain.
A day at the pool shouldn't end with a painful ear. Here's how to prevent swimmer's ear.
Swimmer's ear at a glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical name | Acute otitis externa |
| Cause | Bacteria in a damp ear canal |
| US visits | About 2.4 million a year |
| Common in | Swimmers, children, humid climates |
Early symptoms
- Itching in the ear canal
- Redness
- Pain when the outer ear is pulled or pressed
- Clear drainage
- Muffled hearing
8 prevention tips
- Wear a swim cap or swimmer's earplugs
- Tilt your head to drain water after swimming
- Dry the outer ear gently with a towel
- Use a hair dryer on low, held away from the ear
- Never use cotton swabs in the canal
- Don't scratch inside the ear
- Ask a doctor about drying drops if you swim often
- Avoid swimming in polluted water
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for ear pain, swelling, discharge, fever or hearing changes. Swimmer's ear usually needs prescription ear drops. People with diabetes or a weakened immune system should seek care promptly.
Tinnitrol supports ear health from the inside and is not a treatment for ear infections.
Sources
- CDC – "Swimmer's ear (otitis externa)."
- Rosenfeld RM, et al. "Clinical practice guideline: acute otitis externa." Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 2014.
- Mayo Clinic – "Swimmer's ear."
Common questions
What causes swimmer's ear?
Bacteria growing in water trapped in the ear canal.
How can I prevent it?
Keep ears dry, use earplugs or a swim cap and avoid cotton swabs.
When should I see a doctor?
For ear pain, swelling, discharge or fever.