Swimmers Ears
Dr. Pratibha Pandit Mane- Apr 14
- 1 min read
"Swimmer's ear" is a common name for otitis externa, which is an infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal — the part that runs from the eardrum to the outside of your head. It's often caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming, which creates a moist environment that helps bacteria or fungi grow.
Common Symptoms:
Itching in the ear canal
Redness inside the ear
Discomfort or pain, especially when pulling on the outer ear
Drainage of clear fluid, pus, or even discharge with a smell
Muffled hearing or a feeling of fullness in the ear
Causes:
Water trapped in the ear (common after swimming or showering)
Scratching or using cotton swabs, which can damage the ear canal
Allergic reactions to hair products or earrings
Treatment:
Ear drops: Antibiotic or antifungal ear drops are typically prescribed.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Drying the ear: Avoid swimming and keep the ears dry during healing.
In some cases, a doctor may need to clean out debris or fluid from the canal.
Prevention Tips:
Use ear plugs when swimming
Dry ears thoroughly after water exposure (tilt your head and use a towel .
Avoid inserting anything into your ears
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