Swimmer’s ear doesn’t just affect swimmers – two ear doctors explain what you need to know about this painful condition
Swimmer’s ear is an infection in the external ear canal, the tube leading from the ear opening to the eardrum. Typically, swimmer’s ear occurs only in one ear, and sometimes the eardrum itself is affected
Swimmer's ear is an infection in the external ear canal, a tube that connects the outer ear to the eardrum. This condition often affects only one ear and can lead to painful symptoms. While it's most common among swimmers, anyone can suffer from swimmer's ear, especially those who engage in activities that cause moisture to enter the ear or live in humid climates.
Symptoms of swimmer's ear include severe pain, itching, redness, swelling, and sometimes hearing loss. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination of the ear, which will appear red, swollen, and moist. Treatment usually consists of eardrops containing antibiotics to combat the infection and steroids to reduce swelling. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions diligently to recover fully.
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