Swimmer’s ear symptoms: what to watch for and when to see a doctor
A fun day at the pool or beach shouldn’t leave you with a painful ear, but if you’ve got itching, discomfort, or muffled hearing afterward, you might be dealing with swimmer’s ear. This common condition affects the outer ear canal and can show up hours or even days after water gets trapped inside your ear.
Although it’s most common in the summer, swimmer’s ear can happen any time moisture, bacteria, or irritation throw off the balance in your ear. The sooner you recognize the symptoms, the easier it is to treat and move on with your day.
In this guide, we’ll break down what swimmer’s ear is, the signs to look out for and how you treat it (plus a few tips to help you avoid it next time, too).
What is swimmer’s ear and how do you get it?
Swimmer’s ear (also known as otitis externa) is an infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal, the part that runs from your ear opening to your eardrum. It often happens when water gets trapped in the ear after swimming, bathing, or even showering.
That leftover moisture creates a warm, damp space where bacteria or fungus can grow, especially if the skin inside your ear is already a little irritated. Things like scratching your ear, using earbuds, or cleaning too aggressively with cotton swabs can make it easier for an infection to take hold.
While anyone can get swimmer’s ear, it tends to show up more often in kids, teens and adults who spend a lot of time in the water. But you don’t have to be swimming every day; just being in a warm, humid environment can sometimes be enough to cause a flare-up.
Common swimmer’s ear symptoms to look out for.
Swimmer’s ear usually starts off feeling like a minor annoyance, but it can get worse quickly if you don’t treat it. One of the earliest signs is pain in your ear, especially when you touch or gently pull on it.
Other symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:
- Itching deep in the ear canal
- Redness or swelling around the outer part of your ear
- Drainage that’s clear, yellowish, or a little cloudy
- Muffled hearing or a sensation that your ear is blocked
- Jaw or ear tenderness, especially when chewing or pressing the area
- Swollen lymph nodes near your ear or upper neck (in more advanced cases)
If left untreated, the discomfort can ramp up and the infection may spread. That’s why it’s a good idea to get it checked out if the pain sticks around or gets worse after a couple of days.
How swimmer’s ear is treated and how to prevent it next time.
Luckily, swimmer’s ear is usually easy to treat, especially when caught early. At CityMD, a provider can take a look and, if needed, prescribe antibiotic ear drops to clear the infection. In some cases, you might also get steroid drops to reduce swelling and ease the pain. If the infection is more severe or spreading, oral antibiotics may be recommended.
While you're healing, avoid getting your ears wet and steer clear of earbuds or cotton swabs, which can irritate the area and slow recovery.
To help prevent swimmer’s ear in the future, try these tips:
- Dry your ears gently after swimming or showering, tilt your head and let water drain out, or use a towel to pat the outer ear dry.
- Use earplugs or a swim cap if you’re often in the water.
- Avoid inserting anything into your ears, including cotton swabs or fingers.
- Consider drying drops (available over-the-counter) if you’re prone to water buildup.
Need relief from swimmer’s ear symptoms?
Swimmer’s ear might start out mild, but it can get painful fast if it’s not treated. Knowing the early symptoms and taking steps to keep your ears clean and dry can help you stay ahead of it. If you notice signs like ear pain, itching, or drainage after swimming, don’t wait it out.
Stop by your local CityMD for fast, walk-in care and get back to enjoying the water, without the ache.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.