What does hearing loss feel like with swimmer's ear?

Swimmer's Ear affects the ear canal. Swelling, tenderness, and debris can narrow the passage that carries sound toward the eardrum, making hearing seem dull or plugged. Pain may worsen when the outer ear is moved or when the small flap at the entrance is pressed. Itching, redness, moisture, or discharge can also occur. The hearing change is often on the same side as the sore ear. Hearing loss can have different causes, so a painful or blocked ear should not be diagnosed from symptoms alone.

Arrange an examination if ear pain or reduced hearing lasts, especially after swimming or water exposure. Keep the ear dry, avoid swimming until symptoms settle, and do not use cotton buds, earbuds, or home remedies inside the canal. Do not use ear drops if you may have a perforated eardrum unless a clinician has advised you. Follow prescribed treatment for the full directed course and return if symptoms do not improve.

Get prompt medical help for severe pain, fever, spreading redness, swelling around the ear, dizziness, facial weakness, or sudden hearing loss. Diabetes, reduced immunity, or pain that seems out of proportion also warrants early assessment. Seek care for bloody or heavy discharge, or if symptoms follow an injury.

Is the ear canal swollen or blocked by debris? Which drops are suitable? Could the eardrum be affected? When can I safely swim again?