Swimmer's ear: what to know about over-the-counter care

Swimmer's ear, also called otitis externa, is irritation or infection of the ear canal. Moisture, scratching, or objects placed in the ear can damage its protective skin. Pain, tenderness when the outer ear is moved, itching, discharge, or a blocked feeling can follow. Over-the-counter pain relief may reduce discomfort when you can take it safely. Drying drops may be considered only when the eardrum is intact and there is no ear tube, discharge, or recent ear surgery.

Keep water out of the ear while it settles. Let the canal drain naturally and avoid cotton buds, fingers, earbuds, and home mixtures. Follow the product label for any medicine, and ask a pharmacist if you have long-term conditions, take regular medicines, are pregnant, or are treating a child. Do not use drops if you are unsure about the eardrum. A clinician may need to prescribe drops that reduce inflammation or treat infection, and may clear debris so medicine can reach the canal.

Arrange a GP consultation if pain is strong, symptoms are worsening, the canal feels closed, or there is discharge or new hearing change. Seek urgent help for swelling spreading around the ear, fever with marked illness, severe headache, facial weakness, or pain that seems out of proportion. People with diabetes, reduced immunity, or previous ear surgery should seek advice promptly rather than relying on self-treatment.

Ask whether the eardrum can be seen and whether drops are appropriate, how long to use them, how to keep water away, and what change should prompt a review.