Understanding Swimmer’s Ear: A Nurse Practitioner’s Guide to Prevention and Treatment

As a nurse practitioner, I often see an increase in ear pain complaints during the warmer months—especially among kids and teens who spend a lot of time in the water. One of the most common culprits? Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa.

Unlike a typical middle ear infection, swimmer’s ear affects the outer ear canal and can cause significant discomfort. The good news is that with early recognition and proper care, swimmer’s ear is easily treatable—and often preventable.

What Is Swimmer’s Ear?

Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, the area between the opening of the ear and the eardrum. It’s usually caused by water that gets trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing, creating a moist environment where bacteria or fungi can thrive.

It’s most common in children, swimmers, or anyone who spends a lot of time in water—though it can affect people of any age.

Signs and Symptoms

• Symptoms of swimmer’s ear typically begin mild and worsen if not treated. Watch for:

• Itching in the ear canal

• Redness or swelling around the outer ear

• Pain, especially when touching or pulling the ear

• Drainage from the ear (clear, yellow, or pus-like)

• A feeling of fullness or muffled hearing

• Tender lymph nodes near the ear or jaw in more severe cases

• If your child complains of ear discomfort after swimming, it's a good idea to have it checked early as prompt treatment can prevent complications.
  

Diagnosis and Treatment

Swimmer’s ear is diagnosed with a physical exam, often using an otoscope to look into the ear canal. A healthcare provider may gently examine the canal and assess symptoms.

Treatment may include:

• Prescription of ear drops containing antibiotics and/or corticosteroids

• Pain relief with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

• Keeping the ear dry while healing means no swimming or submersion

Important: Never try to clean the ear with cotton swabs or insert anything into the ear canal, which can worsen irritation or push debris further in.

Prevention Tips

Preventing swimmer’s ear is easier than you might think. Here’s how:

1. Keep Ears Dry

Gently tilt the head after swimming to let water drain.

Use a towel to dry the outer ear after bathing or swimming.

2. Use Ear Drops After Swimming

Over-the-counter acetic acid-based or alcohol drops can help dry the ear canal (ask your provider before using these on children).

3. Avoid Irritants

Do not insert cotton swabs or other objects into the ears.

Avoid using headphones or earbuds in wet ears.

4. Protect Against Frequent Water Exposure

Kids who swim daily may benefit from a preventive ear drop regimen and regular ear checks, especially during swim season.

You should contact your healthcare provider if:

• Ear pain is severe or persistent

• There is discharge, swelling, or hearing loss

• Your child has fever or spreading redness

• Symptoms do not improve within 48–72 hours of starting treatment

Untreated swimmer’s ear can lead to more serious infections or complications, especially in children, diabetics, or those with weakened immune systems.

Swimmer’s ear may be common, but it doesn’t have to interrupt your summer fun. With good ear hygiene, dry ear habits, and prompt attention to symptoms, you can keep ears healthy all season long.

As a nurse practitioner, I’m here to help you prevent, identify, and manage swimmer’s ear effectively. If you have any questions about ear pain, drainage, or hearing changes—don’t wait. Early care is the key to fast relief.