Otitis Externa: Understanding “Swimmer’s Ear” and How to Treat It
Otitis externa, often called “swimmer’s ear”, is a common ear condition that affects the ear canal — the passage that leads from the outer ear to the eardrum. It can cause pain, itching, and discharge, and sometimes even temporary hearing loss. The good news is that with the right care, it usually clears quickly and completely.
What Causes Otitis Externa?
Otitis externa is usually caused by inflammation or infection of the skin of the ear canal. The most common reasons include:
Moisture trapped in the ear (after swimming, showering, or bathing)
Excessive ear cleaning or use of cotton buds, which can damage the delicate skin and introduce bacteria
Use of hearing aids or earplugs, which may irritate the ear canal
Underlying skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
Allergic reactions to shampoos, hair dye, or other products
When the protective earwax layer is removed or broken down, bacteria or fungi can multiply and cause infection.
Symptoms of Otitis Externa
Typical symptoms include:
Ear pain or tenderness, often worse when touching or pulling the ear
Itching inside the ear
A feeling of blockage or fullness
Discharge from the ear (clear or pus-like)
Reduced hearing (usually temporary)
Occasionally, swelling around the outer ear
If you experience severe pain, swelling, fever, or spreading redness, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.
Treatment Options
Most cases of otitis externa can be treated successfully with simple measures.
Treatment may include:
Professional ear cleaning (microsuction)
Removing debris, discharge, or wax helps medication reach the infected area and relieves pressure.
Topical antibiotic or steroid ear drops
These reduce inflammation and fight infection.
In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe a combination of antibiotic and steroid drops.
Pain relief
Simple painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen usually control discomfort well.
Avoiding further irritation
Keep the ear dry (avoid swimming and direct water entry).
Avoid using cotton buds or inserting anything into the ear canal.
Most people notice improvement within 48–72 hours, with complete recovery over 1–2 weeks.
Preventing Otitis Externa
You can help prevent recurrence by:
Drying your ears gently after swimming or showering (tip head to each side)
Avoiding cotton buds or self-cleaning
Using earplugs or a swimming cap if you’re prone to infection
Using a few drops of acetic acid (vinegar-based) ear drops after swimming — if advised by your ENT specialist
When to See an ENT Specialist
If your symptoms persist, keep recurring, or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, it’s important to see an ENT specialist. Persistent or severe otitis externa can sometimes extend deeper and may require more advanced treatment or ear canal packing.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, we offer expert assessment, microsuction ear cleaning, and tailored medical treatment to clear infection and prevent recurrence.
Final Thoughts
Otitis externa can be painful and frustrating, but it’s highly treatable with the right approach. Early specialist care ensures quicker recovery, less discomfort, and lower risk of complications.
If you’re suffering from ear pain, discharge, or hearing loss — particularly after swimming or showering — we’re here to help.
Book a consultation at Hampshire ENT Clinics to receive safe, effective treatment from experienced ENT specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear)
What is otitis externa?
Otitis externa is inflammation or infection of the ear canal (the passage between the outer ear and the eardrum). It is often called “swimmer’s ear” because moisture in the ear canal is a common trigger.
What causes otitis externa?
The most common causes include:
Water trapped in the ear after swimming or showering
Use of cotton buds or excessive ear cleaning
Irritation from hearing aids or earplugs
Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
Allergic reactions to hair products or shampoos
These factors damage the natural protective layer of earwax, allowing bacteria or fungi to grow.
What symptoms should I look out for?
Typical symptoms include:
Ear pain or tenderness, often worse when touching the ear
Itching inside the ear canal
A blocked or full sensation
Ear discharge (clear or pus-like)
Temporary reduction in hearing
Severe pain, swelling, fever, or spreading redness should be assessed urgently.
Is otitis externa serious?
Most cases are mild and clear completely with treatment. However, untreated or severe infections can worsen, particularly in people with diabetes or weakened immune systems, so early treatment is important.
How is otitis externa treated?
Treatment usually includes:
Microsuction ear cleaning to remove debris and allow drops to work effectively
Antibiotic and/or steroid ear drops to treat infection and inflammation
Pain relief with paracetamol or ibuprofen
Keeping the ear dry and avoiding further irritation
Most patients improve within 48–72 hours, with full recovery in 1–2 weeks.
Do I need antibiotics by mouth?
Oral antibiotics are rarely needed. Otitis externa is best treated with topical ear drops, which act directly at the site of infection.
Should I keep my ear dry?
Yes. During treatment you should:
Avoid swimming
Keep water out of the ear when showering
Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal
Your ENT specialist will advise when normal activities can be resumed.
Can otitis externa come back?
Yes, especially if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. Recurrence is more common in swimmers, hearing aid users, and people with skin conditions.
How can I prevent otitis externa?
Helpful measures include:
Drying ears gently after swimming or bathing
Avoiding cotton buds or self-cleaning
Using earplugs or a swimming cap if prone to infections
Using preventative ear drops if advised by your ENT specialist
When should I see an ENT specialist?
You should seek specialist review if:
Symptoms do not improve within a few days
Infections keep recurring
Pain is severe or spreading
You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
Where can I get specialist treatment locally?
Expert assessment and treatment, including microsuction and tailored ear drop therapy, are available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, caring for patients across Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and the wider Hampshire region.