Swimmer’s ear — otitis externa — is one of the most common summer complaints: an infection of the outer ear canal that causes pain, itching, and sometimes drainage. Despite the name, you don’t have to be a competitive swimmer to get it.
What Causes Swimmer’s Ear
The outer ear canal is normally protected by a slightly acidic environment and a thin layer of earwax. When water gets trapped in the canal, it disrupts this environment, softening the skin and allowing bacteria to take hold. Pools, the ocean, even showers can be the source. Aggressive ear cleaning with cotton swabs also removes protective wax and causes micro-abrasions that invite infection.
Swimmer’s Ear vs. Middle Ear Infection
The key distinguishing feature: swimmer’s ear causes significant pain when you move or press on the outer ear or jaw. Middle ear infections cause deep ear pain and pressure but manipulating the outer ear doesn’t increase pain. This distinction matters because treatment is different — swimmer’s ear needs antibiotic ear drops, not oral antibiotics.
Treatment: Antibiotic Ear Drops Are the Standard
Moderate to severe infections require prescription antibiotic ear drops — usually a fluoroquinolone like ciprofloxacin with or without a steroid. Oral antibiotics are generally not needed for uncomplicated swimmer’s ear. A Sickday licensed clinician can examine your ear with an otoscope during a house call, confirm the diagnosis, and prescribe drops sent to your pharmacy the same day.
Prevention for the Rest of Summer
Tilt your head and pull the ear back to help water drain after swimming. A hair dryer on the lowest setting held at arm’s length can help dry the canal. Avoid cotton swabs. Custom earplugs for frequent swimmers are worth the investment.
