Swimmer's ear and a blocked ear

Swimmer's ear inflames the skin of the outer ear canal. Swelling can narrow the passage, while fluid or debris may sit against it and make sounds seem muffled. This differs from wax, middle-ear pressure, or a damaged eardrum, which can cause similar symptoms. Looking into the ear is the safest way to distinguish these possibilities.

Keep the ear dry and leave the canal alone. Avoid cotton buds, hairpins, ear candles, and home flushing, because these can push debris deeper or damage delicate skin. Do not use wax-softening products unless a clinician has confirmed they are suitable. If drops are prescribed, follow the application instructions; swelling may make the drops difficult to enter, so ask for advice rather than forcing them.

Arrange a GP consultation when blocked hearing persists, pain or discharge is increasing, or you cannot use prescribed drops effectively. Seek urgent care for sudden major hearing change, severe dizziness, facial weakness, spreading redness, or severe pain with diabetes or reduced immunity.

Ask whether swelling, discharge, wax, or another ear problem is causing the blockage, whether cleaning is needed in clinic, and when hearing should be checked again.