Summary about Disease
Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal, the tube that runs from the eardrum to the outside of the head. It's often caused by bacteria or fungi that thrive in moist environments. While anyone can get it, it's particularly common in swimmers because water trapped in the ear canal creates a breeding ground for these microorganisms.
Symptoms
Itching in the ear canal
Redness inside the ear
Mild discomfort that worsens with pulling on the ear or pushing on the tragus (the small cartilage flap in front of the ear canal)
Drainage of clear, odorless fluid
Pus-like drainage
Feeling of fullness in the ear
Decreased hearing or muffled hearing
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Fever (in severe cases)
Causes
The primary cause is water remaining in the ear canal after swimming, bathing, or showering, creating a moist environment where bacteria and fungi can grow. Other causes include:
Bacteria (most common)
Fungi
Viruses (less common)
Scratching or cleaning the ear canal aggressively (which can damage the skin and allow germs to enter)
Use of cotton swabs
Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
Earbuds or hearing aids (if not properly cleaned)
Medicine Used
Ear drops: Antibiotic ear drops are the most common treatment for bacterial swimmer's ear. Antifungal ear drops are used for fungal infections. Corticosteroid ear drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
Oral antibiotics: For severe infections that have spread beyond the ear canal, oral antibiotics may be necessary.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
Acidic solutions: Acetic acid solutions (vinegar) are sometimes used to help restore the ear canal's natural pH and inhibit bacterial growth.
Is Communicable
Swimmer's ear itself is not contagious from person to person. You cannot catch it from someone else who has it. The underlying cause is usually bacteria or fungi that are already present in the environment or on your own skin, and the infection develops when conditions are right (e.g., moist ear canal).
Precautions
Dry ears thoroughly: After swimming, bathing, or showering, tilt your head to each side to allow water to drain out. Use a soft towel to gently dry the outer ear. A hair dryer on a cool setting can also be used to dry the ear canal.
Use earplugs: When swimming, especially in potentially contaminated water, use earplugs to prevent water from entering the ear canal.
Avoid scratching: Refrain from scratching or inserting objects into the ear canal, as this can damage the skin and introduce bacteria.
Avoid excessive cleaning: Over-cleaning the ear canal can remove protective earwax and increase the risk of infection.
Use ear-drying solutions: Over-the-counter ear-drying solutions containing alcohol or acetic acid can help remove water and prevent infection.
How long does an outbreak last?
With proper treatment, swimmer's ear typically clears up within 7 to 10 days. If left untreated, or if the infection is severe, it can last longer and potentially lead to complications. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and complete the full course of medication.
How is it diagnosed?
A doctor typically diagnoses swimmer's ear based on a physical examination of the ear. They will use an otoscope (a lighted instrument) to look into the ear canal and check for redness, swelling, drainage, and other signs of infection. The doctor may also take a sample of the drainage to identify the specific bacteria or fungi causing the infection, especially if treatment is not effective.
Timeline of Symptoms
Early Stage (Days 1-3): Itching in the ear canal, mild discomfort, redness inside the ear.
Middle Stage (Days 3-7): Worsening pain, increased drainage, feeling of fullness in the ear, decreased or muffled hearing.
Late Stage (Days 7+): Severe pain, swelling outside the ear, swollen lymph nodes, fever (rare). Untreated, it can lead to complications. Note: This is a general timeline, and the specific progression of symptoms can vary from person to person.
Important Considerations
See a doctor: If you suspect you have swimmer's ear, it's essential to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Complete the treatment: Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and complete the full course of medication, even if your symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
Keep the ear dry: Avoid getting water in the ear while it's healing.
Avoid swimming: Refrain from swimming until the infection has cleared up completely.
Underlying conditions: If you have a pre-existing skin condition or other medical condition, it's important to discuss this with your doctor.
Prevention is key: Taking preventive measures, such as drying your ears thoroughly after swimming and using earplugs, can help reduce your risk of developing swimmer's ear.