Swimmer\u2019s ear (also called acute otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal \u2013 from the opening of the ear to the eardrum. It is usually caused by water (moisture) that stays in the ear canal after swimming. Acute (short-term) swimmer\u2019s ear occurs when bacteria grows in this moist, dark environment. Cuts or scratches in the canal can cause breaks in the skin that also allow the bacteria to grow. These cuts\/scratches are most commonly caused by the use of Q-tip cotton swabs or hairpins, scratching the inside of your ear canal with a fingernail, or wearing insert instruments such as hearing aids or earphones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The first signs of swimmer\u2019s ear include ear pain and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Then, the ear canal may swell and ear drainage may develop. Swimmer\u2019s ear is typically very painful. Some patients may even require narcotic pain medications to manage their pain. The ear canal can swell shut and the affected side of the face may swell. People with swimmer\u2019s ear usually have decreased hearing in the affected ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Acute otitis externa is diagnosed by careful history and a microscope examination of the ear. The main goal of treatment is to stop the infection and allow the ear canal to heal. We recommend a thorough ear cleaning in the office, pain control as needed, and use of topical antibiotic eardrops\/creams. If the ear canal is very swollen, ear wicks (expandable sponges) may need to be placed. It is critical that the canal is not exposed to water as it is healing. In diabetics or people with weak immune systems, acute otitis externa can spread and become life threatening. For these patients, intravenous antibiotics and\/or surgery may be required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n