What should you know about otitis media swimmer s ear?

Swimmer’s ear, also called otitis externa, often follows water exposure or minor irritation in the canal. Touching the outer ear may increase pain, and the canal can feel swollen, itchy or blocked. Otitis media is deeper, behind the eardrum, and commonly follows a cold. Both conditions can cause earache and reduced hearing, so symptoms alone cannot reliably identify the location.

Keep the ear dry and avoid cotton buds, scratching, or placing drops in the ear unless a clinician recommends them. Do not try to remove wax or discharge with an object. Pain relief may help when used according to the label. A clinician can inspect the canal and eardrum, then choose drops or other treatment when appropriate. A GP Consultation is useful if pain follows swimming, continues, or makes hearing feel blocked.

Seek prompt assessment for severe pain, discharge, fever, worsening swelling, or new Hearing Loss. Urgent care is appropriate if redness spreads around the ear, the person feels very unwell, or dizziness affects balance. People with diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice early because ear infections may need closer monitoring.

Ask which part of the ear is affected, whether water must be avoided temporarily, how to use any prescribed drops, and what changes should trigger review.