How long does a GP consultation take to work for swimmer's ear?

The clinician examines the ear canal for swelling, discharge and tenderness, and checks whether the eardrum can be seen. This helps determine whether drops are suitable and whether a blocked canal needs additional attention.

Pain can be pronounced when the outer ear is touched or moved. Hearing may sound muffled while the canal is swollen, and this can improve more slowly than the pain.

Use prescribed ear drops with the technique shown by the clinician. Keep the ear dry, avoid swimming until advised, and do not insert cotton buds, fingers or other objects into the canal.

If the canal is too swollen for drops to reach the skin, a clinician may arrange cleaning or a small wick. Do not attempt this yourself.

Seek urgent assessment for severe pain with fever, swelling spreading around the ear, dizziness, facial weakness, or feeling significantly unwell.

Contact the GP if pain is worsening, drops cannot enter the canal, discharge continues, or there is no improvement within the time given. People with diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice promptly.

Ask how to position your head for drops, how long to keep the ear dry, when hearing should return, and what to do if the canal feels completely blocked.