What is swimmer's ear?
Swimmer's ear (otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal — usually bacterial (Pseudomonas) but sometimes fungal. Common after water exposure but not exclusive to swimming.
Distinct from middle ear infection (otitis media) — the pain pattern, age groups, and treatments differ.
Do I have swimmer's ear? Common signs
If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:
What causes it
Bacterial (Pseudomonas, Staph), sometimes fungal. Water trapped in canal disrupts protective lining. Risk factors: swimming, hot tubs, hearing aids, excessive cleaning, narrow ear canals.
Is it contagious?
No.
The diagnostic clue is pain when you tug on the earlobe — middle ear infections don't do that.
Can it be treated online?
Routine swimmer's ear is well-suited to telehealth. Severe pain, fever, facial swelling, hearing loss, diabetic patients (risk for malignant otitis externa), or perforated eardrum need in-person care.
How swimmer's ear is treated
Antibiotic drops: ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin-dexamethasone (Ciprodex), neomycin-polymyxin B-hydrocortisone (Cortisporin) — used several times daily for 7–10 days. Acetic acid drops for mild cases or fungal. Pain control with ibuprofen/acetaminophen. Keep ear dry during treatment.
Self-care while you wait
- Keep ear dry — no swimming during treatment
- Use earplugs in shower
- Don't insert Q-tips, fingers, or objects
- Vinegar + isopropyl alcohol drops after swimming (preventive)
- Tilt head and shake out water after swimming
- Dry ear with low-heat hair dryer at distance
- Treat any underlying eczema
How long does it last?
Most clear in 3–7 days with drops. Severe cases longer.
Frequently asked questions
How is it different from a regular ear infection?
Outer ear infection — pain with earlobe pull, history of water exposure. Middle ear infection — pain after URI, common in kids, no earlobe pain.
Can I shower?
Yes — but keep ear dry with cotton ball coated in petroleum jelly or use silicone earplugs.
Will antibiotic drops sting?
Mildly initially. Warm bottle in hand before using.
Will I need to take oral antibiotics?
Usually no — drops penetrate well. Oral added for severe, diabetic, or systemic symptoms.
How do I prevent it?
Dry ears after swimming, vinegar-alcohol drops preventively, swim plugs if prone, avoid Q-tips and finger insertion.
