What should you know about swimmer's ear itch?

Swimmer's ear, also called otitis externa, affects the skin lining the ear canal. Water left in the canal, scratching, earbuds, or cotton swabs can disturb that skin. Itching may come before soreness, swelling, discharge, or tenderness when the outer ear is touched. A blocked feeling can also occur when swelling narrows the canal. Itching alone cannot confirm the cause, because eczema, allergy, wax irritation, and other ear problems can feel similar.

Keep water out of the affected ear while it settles. During bathing, avoid directing water into the canal, and do not swim until symptoms have cleared or a clinician has advised you. Do not put cotton swabs, fingers, oils, or unprescribed drops inside the ear. A clinician can look into the canal and choose drops when treatment is needed; follow the label and finish the advised course. For tailored assessment, see a GP Consultation.

Arrange medical care if itching continues, becomes painful, or is joined by discharge, reduced hearing, marked swelling, or fever. Seek prompt help for severe pain, redness spreading around the ear, dizziness, or weakness of the face. People with diabetes or a weakened immune system should seek advice early because ear infections may need closer monitoring. Earache and Hearing Loss can help you describe related symptoms.

Ask whether the canal looks inflamed, whether drops are appropriate, and how to keep water away while it heals. Mention recent swimming, ear cleaning, skin conditions, discharge, and any change in hearing.