Otitis Externa: The Swimmer’s Ear Infection

During the hot summer months, it may be tempting to swim in a cool lake or pool, but be careful. Otitis externa—a painful infection of the ear—is one of many waterborne illnesses you may come across. Often called swimmer’s ear, otitis externa literally means “ear infection and inflammation” (otitis) of the “outer” (externa) ear.

Any exposure to water or excessive cleaning of the ears can lead to otitis externa. As you shower or clean your ears with a cotton swab, you may remove too much protective wax from your outer ear. The skin on your ear may also be injured by scratching it. In any of these situations, germs and fungus are able to enter your ear and cause otitis externa.

Otitis externa can be a very uncomfortable condition. It can cause ear itching, severe pain, and congestion. You also might notice a loss of hearing and drainage from your ears. To fight the infection of otitis externa, you may need ear drops or other medications, but even with medicine otitis externa can be hard to treat.

In addition to medication, there are some other ways to help your otitis externa feel better. While bathing and washing your hair, keep your ears as dry as you can. Washing or scratching your ears can make your otitis externa worse. Sometimes it’s better to take a bath instead of a shower. You also should avoid all water sports if you have otitis externa.

To prevent otitis externa in the future, you should let your ear’s natural defenses do what they do best. Using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears will break down the natural barrier that protects your ears from otitis externa. Don’t worry about ear wax unless it affects your hearing. You should always keep your ears as dry as possible, especially after swimming and showering. Earplugs, unfortunately, are not beneficial in preventing otitis externa and may actually irritate your ear canal. Swimming caps and wetsuits work much better at protecting your ears. To prevent otitis externa after swimming, it may also help to use 1-2 drops of half rubbing alcohol and half vinegar in each ear.