Swimmer's ear from a shower: what to know

Swimmer's ear, also called otitis externa, is inflammation of the passage between the outer ear and the eardrum. Shower water does not automatically cause it, but trapped moisture can make the canal more vulnerable. Cotton buds, fingernails, earbuds, and vigorous drying may create tiny areas of irritation. Common features include tenderness when the outer ear is moved, itching, a blocked feeling, discharge, or reduced hearing. An earache can have several causes, so the symptom alone cannot identify swimmer's ear.

Tilt your head to each side and let water drain naturally. Dry the outside of the ear with a towel; do not put objects into the canal or scratch it. Pause swimming until discomfort and discharge have settled. Avoid unprescribed drops if you may have a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, or previous ear surgery. A clinician can look into the canal and choose suitable drops if inflammation is present. A GP consultation can help when symptoms persist or hearing feels blocked.

Arrange medical assessment for worsening pain, discharge, marked swelling, fever, or hearing change. Seek prompt care if redness or swelling spreads around the ear, pain becomes severe, or you feel generally unwell. People with diabetes or a weakened immune system should seek advice earlier because outer-ear infections may need closer monitoring.

Ask whether the ear canal is inflamed, whether the eardrum can be seen, which drops are appropriate, and how long to keep the ear dry. Mention recent swimming, shower exposure, scratching, earbuds, discharge, hearing changes, and any ear surgery.