What Is Swimmer's Ear? Learn The Causes & Symptoms

The summer months bring joy, sunshine, and often, more time in the water. But for many, this fun can come with an unwelcome guest: Swimmer's Ear. While the name suggests a connection to swimming, this common ear infection can affect anyone, at any time, when the right conditions are met.

So, what exactly is Swimmer's Ear, and how does it come about?

What is Swimmer's Ear?

Swimmer's Ear, medically known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal. This is the tube that runs from your eardrum to the outside of your head. Unlike a middle ear infection (which is behind the eardrum and often associated with colds), Swimmer's Ear primarily affects the skin lining this outer passage. For a comprehensive overview, you can learn more about Swimmer's Ear from the Mayo Clinic.

When healthy, the ear canal has natural defenses that keep it clean and protected. However, certain factors can compromise these defenses, making the ear susceptible to infection.

What Causes Swimmer's Ear?

The primary culprit behind Swimmer's Ear is moisture trapped in the ear canal, creating a warm, damp environment that is perfect for bacteria or, less commonly, fungi to grow. Here's how it typically happens:

• Water Exposure: As the name suggests, swimming is a major contributor. Water that remains in the ear canal after swimming, showering, or even bathing can wash away the protective layer of earwax (cerumen) and allow bacteria to multiply. You don't have to be an Olympic swimmer to get it; even a few drops of water can be enough if the ear doesn't dry properly.

• Damage to the Ear Canal Skin: Any break or irritation in the delicate skin lining the ear canal can also open the door for infection. This can occur from aggressive ear cleaning (like using cotton swabs or fingernails), pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema, frequent use of hearing aids or earbuds/headphones which can trap moisture and irritate the skin, or irritation from products like hair sprays and shampoos.

When the protective barrier is compromised and moisture is present, the ear canal becomes an inviting breeding ground for the microorganisms that cause infection.

What Are the Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear?

The symptoms of Swimmer's Ear can range from mild to severe and usually develop within a few days of the ear becoming wet or irritated. They often start subtle and worsen if the infection is left unaddressed.

Here are the common signs to watch for:

• Itching in the ear canal: Often one of the first symptoms, particularly within the ear itself.

• Redness and swelling: The skin of the outer ear and ear canal may appear red and puffy.

• Pain: This is a hallmark symptom and can range from mild discomfort to intense, throbbing pain. The pain often worsens when you pull on the outer ear (the pinna) or press on the small bump in front of the ear canal (the tragus).

• Tenderness to the touch: The area around the ear may be sensitive.

• Pus or fluid drainage: As the infection progresses, you might notice a clear, yellow, or foul-smelling discharge from the ear.

• Feeling of fullness or blockage: The ear canal may swell, leading to a sense of pressure or as if something is in the ear.

• Decreased hearing: If the swelling or discharge blocks the ear canal, it can temporarily muffle hearing.

• Fever (less common): In more severe cases, a low-grade fever might be present.

It's important to be aware of these symptoms and to pay attention if you or a family member develops them after water exposure or ear irritation. Understanding what Swimmer's Ear is and its common signs is the first step in addressing this uncomfortable condition.