Swimmers’ ear is a type of inner ear infection that occurs when water gets stuck inside of the ear canal. It is nicknamed swimmers’ ear because it is most commonly caused by water entering the ear after swimming. Swimmers’ ear can be very painful, making it important to be able to identify the signs so that you can seek appropriate medical treatment. Most cases of swimmers’ ear are easily treated with at-home care or a round of antibiotics.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of swimmers' ear or are having general discomfort in your ear, AFC Urgent Care Medford can help. At our walk-in clinic, our board-certified medical providers can provide prompt same-day care for ear infections. We treat patients of all ages, and are open 7 days a week with no appointment necessary. Just walk into the clinic, or save your spot online in advance using the button below.
Understanding Swimmers’ Ear Symptoms
Swimmers’ ear is a kind of ear infection that is most commonly seen in the summer months. It occurs when liquid is trapped inside the ear canal. This liquid creates an infection deep within the ear as bacteria multiply in the stagnant water. Swimmers’ ear symptoms typically show up a few days after the water initially enters the ear canal, and symptoms can last 7 to 10 days with treatment, but can last much longer without medical intervention.
Common symptoms of swimmers’ ear include:
- Pain inside of the ear
- Trouble hearing
- A feeling of fullness within the ear
- Headaches
- Fever
- Fluid leaking from the ear
- Itchiness within the ear canal
Swimmers’ Ear Diagnosis & Treatment
If you’re experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms associated with swimmers’ ear, you need to seek medical care. Because swimmers’ ear are caused by bacteria growing inside of the ear canal, it can be tricky to reach the infection properly and often requires antibiotics or medicated ear drops. With proper care, most cases clear up in a week. However, delaying care can lead to severe symptoms and sometimes permanent damage within the ear canal.
Tips for Preventing Ear Infections in the Summer
Swimmers’ ear is most commonly caused by dunking your head underwater while swimming. However, it is possible that everyday tasks like showering can expose your ear canal to water. If you feel water in your ear, be sure to shake it out as best as you can immediately. If you’re an avid swimmer or are prone to developing ear infections, you might want to consider wearing ear plugs while swimming to prevent water from being able to enter the ear.
Walk Into AFC Urgent Care Medford for Same-Day Care for Ear Infections
Ear infections can be very painful, and cases of swimmers’ ear are common during the summer months. If you’re experiencing symptoms of swimmers’ ear, it is important that you seek medical care for proper diagnosis and treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Medford, our walk-in clinic offers same-day care for common ailments including cases of swimmers’ ear and other ear infections.
Our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt care for minor conditions. We’re open 7 days a week and provide care for patients of all ages. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient. We have short wait times and never require you to schedule an appointment. Our clinic works with most medical insurance plans, and has affordable rates for patients paying out of pocket for their care. To learn more, walk into the clinic or give us a call at (617) 582-2800.
