Swimmer's Ear: Causes, Treatments, and What You Need to Know
When you get swimmer's ear, a painful infection of the outer ear canal often triggered by water trapped after swimming. Also known as otitis externa, it’s not the same as a middle ear infection—it starts where your ear meets the outside world, and it can turn a simple swim into days of discomfort. This isn’t just a problem for competitive swimmers. Anyone who spends time in water—whether it’s a pool, lake, or even a shower—can get it, especially if the ear canal stays wet or gets scratched by cotton swabs.
Ear drops, the most common treatment for swimmer's ear, are usually the first line of defense. They often contain antibiotics to kill bacteria, antifungals if fungi are involved, and sometimes steroids to reduce swelling. But not all ear drops are the same. Some are acidic to restore the ear’s natural pH, while others are designed for chronic cases. The right choice depends on what’s causing the infection and how long it’s been going on. And no, putting alcohol or vinegar in your ear isn’t always safe—it can irritate already damaged skin. What you wear matters too. Breathable fabrics, like cotton towels or moisture-wicking headbands, help dry your ears faster after swimming. Just like how wearing the wrong clothes can trap moisture and make fungal skin infections worse, the same logic applies to your ears. Drying techniques, like tilting your head and gently pulling the earlobe, are simple but often ignored. And while antibiotics like ampicillin, a penicillin-class drug used for bacterial infections are common for other infections, they’re rarely used for swimmer's ear because it’s usually treated topically. Oral antibiotics only come into play if the infection spreads beyond the ear canal.
People often mistake swimmer's ear for a cold or sinus issue because both can cause ear pressure. But swimmer's ear hurts when you tug on the earlobe or press on the bump in front of the ear. It’s also more likely if you’ve been swimming recently, have eczema, or use hearing aids or earbuds often. The good news? Most cases clear up in a few days with proper care. The bad news? Skipping treatment or poking at your ear can turn a mild case into a serious one.
Below, you’ll find real-world advice from recent medical updates—how to choose the right ear drops, what to avoid after swimming, when to see a doctor, and how to prevent it from coming back. No fluff. Just what works.
