Swimmer's ear and headache: what to know

Swimmer's ear is inflammation of the outer ear canal. Tender, irritated skin can make pain feel wider than the canal itself, including near the jaw or temple, particularly when chewing or moving the ear. Itching, discharge, a blocked sensation, and reduced hearing may occur alongside ear pain. Headache is not specific to swimmer's ear; dehydration, migraine, sinus problems, dental pain, or another ear condition can also cause it. The combination of symptoms and an examination is more useful than any single symptom.

Keep the ear dry and avoid swimming while it is painful or draining. Do not insert cotton buds, fingers, or home remedies into the canal. Rest in a quiet, cool room if head pain is mild, and drink fluids if you have been sweating or have had little to drink. A clinician can inspect the canal, check the eardrum, and recommend treatment suited to the findings. A GP consultation is useful when pain or headache does not settle.

Seek prompt medical care for a sudden severe headache, confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, neck stiffness, weakness, vision change, or difficulty speaking. Arrange same-day assessment for severe ear pain, fever, swelling behind the ear, spreading redness, or rapidly worsening hearing. Earlier advice is sensible if you have diabetes or reduced immunity.

Ask whether the headache could be referred pain from the ear, whether the eardrum is intact, what treatment is suitable, and which warning signs should prompt urgent review. Describe when the headache began and whether ear movement, chewing, fever, or discharge changes it.