Swimmer’s ear is a painful condition that occurs when moisture trapped in the ear canal becomes infected.
Symptoms of swimmer’s ear may be mild at first but can quickly progress. The symptoms may include:
The outer ear has glands that form a thin, water-repellant film on the skin inside the ear. Excessive swimming can cause the wax coating to diminish, allowing water to enter and remain. Although called ‘swimmer’s ear’, swimming is not the only cause. Prolonged exposure to a moist environment, humid weather and heavy perspiration can also cause the condition. In addition, several other factors may cause swimmer’s ear and can include:
Swimmer’s ear can be prevented. It is important to swim wisely and remember to take days off from the activity. Boys Town National Research Hospital recommends the following to help prevent swimmer’s ear:
Swimmer’s ear can be treated. If you have symptoms of this condition, schedule an appointment with a physician to determine the cause and to receive proper treatment. A physician may clean the ear using ear drops, possibly prescribe infection fighting ear drops and suggest pain relievers.
It is important to not let swimmer’s ear progress. Temporary hearing loss, widespread infection, tissue and cartilage damage can occur if left untreated.