Summer in Cleveland, means plenty of time spent at the pool, Cherokee National Forest swimming holes, local lakes, and backyard splash pads. While cooling off in the water is one of the best ways to enjoy the season, it can sometimes lead to an uncomfortable condition known as swimmer's ear.
If your ear starts aching after a day of swimming, don't assume it's just trapped water. Swimmer's ear is a common infection that can become increasingly painful without proper treatment. The good news? Our AFC providers at AFC Cleveland are here to help you get relief quickly.
What Is Swimmer's Ear?
Swimmer's ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal. It develops when water becomes trapped inside the ear, allowing bacteria or fungi to grow. Although swimming is the most common cause, swimmer's ear can also develop after frequent showers or from using cotton swabs or other objects that irritate the delicate skin inside the ear canal.
Common Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear
Symptoms often begin gradually and become more noticeable over a day or two. Watch for:
- Ear pain that worsens when you touch or pull on the ear
- Itching inside the ear canal
- Redness or swelling around the ear
- Clear, yellow, or cloudy drainage
- A feeling of fullness or pressure
- Muffled hearing
Without treatment, the infection can become more painful and interfere with daily activities.
How to Help Prevent Swimmer's Ear
You can lower your risk by following a few simple habits:
- Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering.
- Tilt your head to help water drain from each ear.
- Avoid using cotton swabs or inserting objects into your ears.
- Wear properly fitted earplugs if you swim frequently.
- Give your ears time to recover if they become irritated.
A little prevention can go a long way toward avoiding an infection.
Can Swimmer's Ear Be Treated at Home?
If symptoms are limited to mild irritation, keeping your ears clean and dry may help. Avoid swimming until your ears feel better, and don't insert anything into the ear canal.
However, once you develop significant pain, swelling, or drainage, home remedies usually aren't enough. Swimmer's ear often requires prescription medication to clear the infection completely.
When Should You Visit AFC Cleveland?
It's time to seek medical care if you experience:
- Moderate to severe ear pain
- Drainage from the ear
- Swelling that affects your hearing
- Symptoms lasting longer than one or two days
- Fever or redness spreading beyond the ear
- Pain that continues to worsen despite home care
Getting treated early can relieve discomfort faster and help prevent the infection from becoming more severe.
How AFC Cleveland Can Help
At AFC Cleveland, our experienced AFC providers can diagnose swimmer's ear and recommend the treatment that's right for you. Depending on your symptoms, care may include prescription ear drops, medication to reduce inflammation, and guidance to help protect your ears while they heal. If ear pain is putting your summer on hold, don't wait for it to get worse. Visit AFC Cleveland for quick, convenient care so you can get back to enjoying everything summer has to offer.
