Overview
Swimmer's ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, the passage between the eardrum and the outside. It is common in children who swim often, as trapped water creates a moist environment where bacteria grow. Unlike a middle ear infection, the pain is usually worse when the outer ear is touched or tugged.
Symptoms
- Ear pain that worsens when the ear is touched or pulled
- Itching inside the ear canal
- Redness and swelling of the ear canal
- Fluid or pus draining from the ear
- Temporary muffled hearing
Causes & risk factors
- Bacterial infection of the ear canal, often after water exposure
- Moisture trapped in the canal from swimming or bathing
- Scratches in the canal from cotton swabs or fingers
- Skin conditions such as eczema affecting the ear
Treatment & self-care
Care generally involves keeping the ear dry and treatment directed by a clinician, who may clean the canal and prescribe ear medication. A licensed clinician should examine the ear to confirm the diagnosis and check the eardrum is intact before any drops are used.
See a doctor urgently if
- Ear pain is severe or spreading to the face or neck
- There is swelling or redness of the outer ear or surrounding skin
- Your child has a fever alongside the ear symptoms
- Hearing loss does not improve after the infection clears
- Your child has diabetes or a weakened immune system