Swimmer's ear inflammation: what to know

The outer ear canal is a narrow passage lined with sensitive skin. Moisture, rubbing, scratching, or removing too much protective wax can disturb that skin. Inflammation may then cause swelling and tenderness, especially when the outer ear is touched or moved. Fluid or debris can narrow the passage and make sounds seem muffled. A sore ear is not enough to identify the cause: eczema, a middle-ear problem, a foreign object, or an eardrum issue can produce similar symptoms. An examination separates these possibilities.

Keep the ear dry and gently towel the outside after washing. Avoid swimming, cotton buds, scratching, and attempts to remove debris yourself. Do not pour oil, alcohol, or other home mixtures into the canal. If a clinician recommends drops, use them as directed and keep the applicator clean. Pain that continues, discharge, or hearing change deserves a medical review so the canal and eardrum can be checked. A GP consultation can provide that assessment.

Seek prompt medical care if pain is severe, swelling is spreading, fever develops, or the area behind the ear becomes swollen or tender. Sudden hearing loss, dizziness, facial weakness, or feeling very unwell requires urgent assessment. Arrange earlier advice if you have diabetes, reduced immunity, ear tubes, a perforated eardrum, or previous ear surgery.

Ask what is inflamed, whether the eardrum is visible and intact, whether drops are suitable, how to protect the ear from water, and when a recheck is needed. Describe recent showering or swimming, cleaning habits, discharge, and any hearing change.