Swimmer's Ear: Causes, Symptoms and How to Prevent It
Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear canal. It is common in people who swim often, and simple habits can help prevent it.
This article is general information, not medical advice. If you think you or your child has an ear infection, see a doctor.
What is swimmer's ear?
Swimmer's ear, medically called acute otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal: the tube that runs from the outside of the ear to the eardrum. It is different from the middle ear infections young children often get with colds. It is called swimmer's ear because water that stays in the ear canal after swimming creates a moist environment where germs can grow.
Causes
- Water staying in the ear after swimming, bathing or showering.
- Damage to the skin of the ear canal, for example from cotton buds, fingers, hairpins or earphones. The CDC advises against putting objects in the ear canal and against removing ear wax yourself.
- Skin conditions such as eczema in the ear canal, which can make infection more likely.
Symptoms
- itching inside the ear;
- pain, often worse when the outer ear is pulled or pressed;
- redness and swelling of the ear canal;
- discharge from the ear;
- a blocked feeling or reduced hearing.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have ear pain, discharge, swelling or reduced hearing, especially if you also have a fever, or if symptoms do not improve. A doctor can confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment, which often involves ear drops. Do not put anything into an ear that might be infected, and keep it dry until you have been seen.
How to prevent swimmer's ear
- Keep ears as dry as possible. The CDC suggests a swim cap, earplugs or custom-fitted swim moulds for people prone to swimmer's ear.
- Drain water after swimming. Tilt your head to each side and gently pull the earlobe in different directions to let water run out.
- Dry gently. Use a towel on the outer ear. If water remains, the CDC suggests a hair dryer on the lowest heat and fan setting, held several centimetres away from the ear.
- Leave ear wax alone. Wax helps protect the ear canal. Do not use cotton buds or other objects inside the ear.
- Ask about ear-drying drops. Check with a doctor or pharmacist before using drops, especially if you have had ear surgery or a perforated eardrum.
Can you swim with swimmer's ear?
Doctors often advise keeping the ear dry while it heals, which may mean a short break from swimming. Follow your doctor's advice on when to return. Tell your swimming instructor so they can plan lessons accordingly.
Children and swimmer's ear
Children who swim often are more likely to get swimmer's ear. Teach them to tilt and drain their ears after lessons, and pack a towel and, if your doctor recommends them, earplugs. See our swimming equipment list and our kids swimming course.
More in health and wellbeing
- Swimming injuries7 common problems and how to avoid them
- Swimming while pregnant6 benefits and safety tips
- Why does swimming make you hungry?7 reasons and how to refuel sensibly
- Why does swimming make you sleepy?15 reasons you feel tired after a swim
Sources
- CDC, Preventing swimmer's ear. Keep ears dry with a cap, earplugs or swim moulds; tilt and drain after swimming; use a hair dryer on low; ask a healthcare provider before using ear-drying drops.
- CDC (2011), Swimmer's ear prevention advice. Do not put objects in the ear canal or remove ear wax yourself, as both can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.
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