Swimmer's ear swelling: what it means and what to do

Swimmer's ear affects the skin lining the outer ear canal. Moisture and minor injury can allow inflammation or infection to develop, making the canal tender and swollen. The opening may feel tight, and sound can seem muffled because swelling or debris blocks the route to the eardrum. Pain when touching the outer ear supports an outer-canal problem, but examination is needed to distinguish it from other causes of earache.

Keep the ear dry and do not insert cotton buds, fingers, hearing devices, or other objects while it is sore. Do not try to scrape away swelling or discharge. Pain relief may be useful if it is safe with your health conditions and medicines. Because a very narrow canal may prevent drops from reaching the affected skin, a clinician may clean it carefully or place a small wick before prescribing treatment.

Arrange a GP consultation when swelling is increasing, the ear is blocked, discharge appears, or hearing changes. Seek urgent care if redness or swelling spreads beyond the ear, you feel very unwell, or you develop severe pain, facial weakness, or a severe headache. Prompt assessment is especially important with diabetes, reduced immunity, or recent ear surgery.

Ask what is causing the swelling, whether the eardrum is visible, whether the canal needs cleaning, how to use prescribed drops, and when hearing should be checked again.