What should you know about inside swimmer's ear?

Swimmer's ear, or otitis externa, affects the passage from the outer ear opening toward the eardrum. Water left in the canal, scratching, earbuds, or cotton swabs can damage its protective skin. The canal may become swollen and sore, making the ear feel blocked. Pulling the outer ear or pressing the small flap at the entrance can be particularly painful.

This is different from an infection behind the eardrum. A clinician may need to look into the canal because swelling, wax, and other causes of ear pain can look similar. Do not insert objects or fluids into the ear while it is painful.

Keep the ear dry while it heals. Avoid swimming, and protect the ear from shower water without pushing cotton buds or tissue into the canal. Wipe only the outside of the ear. Do not use ear drops if you might have a damaged eardrum, have ear tubes, or have had ear surgery unless a clinician advises you.

A GP may prescribe drops that reduce inflammation or treat infection after examining the canal. Use them exactly as directed and finish the advised course. Pain relief may be suitable for some people, but check the label and ask a pharmacist if you are pregnant, have another condition, or take regular medicines.

Arrange an assessment for worsening ear pain, discharge, swelling that narrows the canal, or symptoms that do not settle. Seek urgent care for fever, severe pain extending into the face or neck, dizziness, new weakness around the face, or sudden hearing change. People with diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice early because ear infections can become more serious.

Read about [Earache](/symptoms/earache/) and [Hearing Loss](/symptoms/hearing-loss/) if these symptoms accompany the ear discomfort, but do not delay care for sudden or marked hearing loss.

Ask: Is the ear canal inflamed or blocked by wax? Is my eardrum intact? Which drops are suitable, and how should I position my head when using them? When can I swim again? A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can also identify whether another ear problem needs treatment.