Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is a painful condition caused by infection or irritation in the outer ear canal, often from water that gets trapped after swimming. If you’ve ever experienced it, you know how uncomfortable it can be– itching, tenderness, muffled hearing, and sometimes throbbing pain. There are effective ways to relieve swimmer’s ear pain quickly and safely. In this blog, we’ll cover the symptoms, causes, and best remedies to ease discomfort fast.
For same-day swimmer’s ear treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. Our board-certified medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan treatment accordingly. Just walk in or check-in online below!
Causes and Symptoms Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear happens when moisture lingers in the ear canal, creating a warm, damp environment where bacteria or fungi can grow. It’s most common in swimmers, but it can also affect anyone who frequently gets water in their ears, cleans their ears aggressively, has skin conditions that affect the ear canal, or uses hearing aids or earbuds that trap moisture. Early treatment is key, so knowing the signs can help prevent the infection from worsening.
Common symptoms include:
- Ear pain, especially when touching or tugging the ear
- Itching in the ear canal
- Redness or swelling in the outer ear
- Fluid drainage (clear, yellow, or pus-like)
- Muffled hearing or a feeling or fullness
- Swollen lymph nodes around the ear or neck
How To Quickly Relieve Swimmer’s Ear Pain
1. Use Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
OTC swimmer’s ear drops can help dry out excess moisture and relieve minor irritation. Look for products containing isopropyl alcohol and glycerin, which help evaporate water and soothe the skin. These are most effective in the early stages of irritation, not when an infection is already established.
2. Apply Warm Compresses
A warm compress held gently against the affected ear can help relieve throbbing pain. Try using a warm (not hot) washcloth for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
3. Take Pain Relievers
Medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and inflammation while you wait for treatment to take effect.
4. Keep The Ear Dry
Avoid getting any additional water in the ear. Skip swimming and be careful in the shower. Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects in the ear canal as this can worsen the irritation and push bacteria deeper.
When To See a Healthcare Provider
If symptoms persist longer than a day or two, or include the following, it’s time to seek medical care:
- Severe or increasing ear pain
- Fever
- Swelling spreading to the side of the face or lymph nodes
- Discharge that is thick, green, or foul-smelling
- Trouble hearing out of the affected ear
A medical provider may prescribe antibiotic or antifungal ear drops to clear the infection, and possibly a steroid to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Get Walk-In Swimmer’s Ear Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth
Swimmer’s ear can be painful and frustrating, but the sooner you treat it, the faster you’ll feel relief. At-home remedies can help with mild symptoms, but don’t hesitate to seek medical care if the pain is severe or persistent. Do you need swimmer’s ear treatment? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth! No appointment is necessary– simply walk in any day of the week during operating hours to start recovering fast. We accept most insurance plans and offer cost-effective payment options for those without. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact us directly at (908) 677-5900.
