Swimmer’s Ear – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Initial Evaluation
When someone visits a healthcare provider because of symptoms like ear pain, itching, swelling, or discharge from the ear canal, the provider starts with some simple checks. The provider usually asks about any recent swimming or ear trauma.
The provider uses a lighted tool called an otoscope to check inside the ear.
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Otoscope Exam: The healthcare provider looks for signs like:
- Redness or swelling inside the ear canal
- Scaly skin, flakes, or visible debris
- Signs of infection such as pus or fluid
Sometimes, earwax or discharge blocks the view of the eardrum. If this happens, the provider uses a gentle suction tool or a scoop to clear the outer ear canal.
The provider checks for injury to the eardrum since a tear or hole could cause more problems.
Checklist: Signs often noticed during examination
| Symptom | Seen with Otoscope |
|---|---|
| Swelling | โ๏ธ |
| Redness | โ๏ธ |
| Flaky skin | โ๏ธ |
| Fluid/drainage | โ๏ธ |
Additional Tests If Needed
If the initial care does not help or the infection is complicated, the provider takes further steps. The provider may collect a sample of fluid or debris from the outer ear canal and send it to a lab.
The lab checks for bacteria or fungi. If the eardrum is torn or if hearing loss or fever develop, the provider refers the patient to an ear, nose, and throat specialist.
Specialists use advanced tools for cleaning and inspection. In cases of lasting or severe infections, these extra tests and referrals help find the exact cause and guide targeted treatments.
Treatment
Ear Canal Cleaning
Proper cleaning of the outer ear canal is important. Health professionals use special tools such as suction devices or a small ear curet to remove earwax, flaky skin, pus, or debris.
This step helps medicine reach all the infected areas. Patients should not try to clean deep inside the ear themselves with cotton swabs because this can push things farther in or hurt the ear.
Infection-Fighting Medicines
Health professionals often use ear drops to treat ear infections.
These drops may contain:
- Acidic solutions (like acetic acid) to help restore the earโs natural defense.
- Steroids to lower swelling and irritation.
- Antibiotics to kill bacteria.
- Antifungal agents if fungus causes the infection.
If the ear canal is blocked, a doctor might place a small cotton or gauze wick inside the ear. The wick soaks up drops and helps carry the medicine deeper.
If ear drops cannot be used or do not work alone, some people may need antibiotics by mouth.
How to Use Ear Drops:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Warm the bottle by holding it in your hand for a few minutes. |
| 2 | Lie on your side with the infected ear facing up. |
| 3 | Have someone else help put the drops in, if possible. |
| 4 | After putting in the drops, stay on your side for a few minutes. |
| 5 | Gently pull the earlobe down to help the drops move in. |
Pain Relief Options
Over-the-counter pain medicines can help with ear pain. Common choices include ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or acetaminophen. These medicines reduce discomfort while the infection heals.
Take the recommended dose and talk to a healthcare provider if stronger pain medicine is needed.
Tips to Support Healing
Keeping the ear dry is important during treatment. Patients should avoid swimming or using scuba gear until the ear is fully healed. Do not wear hearing aids, earplugs, or earbuds until pain and discharge are gone.
Protect the ear from water during showers or baths by covering it gently with a cotton ball coated in petroleum jelly.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Should Take
Before seeing a healthcare provider, make a brief checklist. Write down any ear symptoms, such as pain, itchiness, or discharge, and when they started.
List all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you are using, including the dosage. Record any history of allergies, including reactions to skin care products or medications.
If you have ongoing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, note these as they may increase the risk of ear problems. Let the provider know if you take part in water activities, such as swimming or water sports.
You can ask about ways to protect your ears, like using earplugs or bathing caps. Come prepared with questions for the healthcare provider.
Example questions include:
- What might be causing these ear symptoms?
- What treatment is recommended?
- How soon can improvement be expected?
- Are follow-up visits necessary?
Questions Your Provider Might Ask
The healthcare provider may ask if you have recently been exposed to water, such as swimming in pools, lakes, or oceans.
They might ask if you use earplugs, cotton swabs, or earbuds. These habits can increase your risk for infections, especially if you have a history of eczema or other skin conditions.
Expect questions about any previous ear issues, such as otitis media (middle ear infection) or swimmerโs ear. The provider may also ask if you have had any recent medical exams or treatments for your ears.
