A swimmer’s ear can turn everyday moments into misery, with itching, pain, drainage, and muffled hearing that make work, sleep, and time outdoors frustrating. At Surgical Associates Northwest, our ENTs help you find fast relief so you can get back to living comfortably.
Does Your Ear Feel Swollen, Tender, or Blocked?
Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, the space that runs from your eardrum to the outside of your ear. It often develops when water gets trapped after swimming or showering, creating a warm, moist environment where bacteria can grow and thrive. You might experience pain when touching your ear, as well as itching, swelling, redness, or drainage. Left untreated, a swimmer’s ear can worsen and interfere with hearing, sleep, and daily activities.
Signs & Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear
Swimmer’s ear often starts subtly but can quickly become uncomfortable, especially if the infection worsens, and symptoms may include:
- Ear pain that worsens when the ear is touched or pulled
- Persistent itching inside the ear canal
- Redness or swelling of the outer ear
- Drainage of clear, cloudy, or yellow fluid
- A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- Increased discomfort when chewing or talking
What Causes a Swimmer's Ear?
Your outer ear canal is a narrow, delicate passage that protects the eardrum while allowing sound to travel inward. When moisture, irritation, or minor skin damage disrupts this natural barrier, bacteria can grow and trigger infection. Swimmer’s ear most often develops when the ear canal stays damp or irritated, commonly due to the following factors:
- Water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing
- Excess moisture from humid environments or sweating
- Small cuts or abrasions inside the ear canal
- Overuse of cotton swabs or other objects in the ear
- Skin conditions that cause dryness or cracking
- Hearing aids or earbuds that trap moisture
Your Swimmer's Ear Treatment Experience
Your care begins with a thorough consultation focused on understanding your symptoms, lifestyle, and recent water exposure. At Surgical Associates Northwest, our providers examine your ear canal using specialized tools to look for swelling, debris, or infection. You’ll have time to ask questions, and your ENT will explain what’s causing your discomfort and why certain treatments are recommended.
Your provider may gently clean the ear canal to remove debris and trapped moisture. Prescription ear drops are often used to reduce bacteria, inflammation, and pain. If swelling is significant, a small ear wick may be placed to help medications reach deeper areas. You’ll receive clear aftercare instructions to protect your ear while it heals.
Swimmer's Ear FAQs
How Do You Know if Your Ear Pain is Swimmer’s Ear or Something Else?
A swimmer’s ear usually causes pain when you touch or pull on your ear, along with itching, swelling, or drainage. If your pain feels deep and constant, or is accompanied by fever or significant hearing loss, your ENT can determine whether another condition is involved.
Can a Swimmer's Ear Go Away on Its Own?
Mild cases of swimmer’s ear may resolve on their own, but most ear infections require treatment to resolve fully. Without proper care, symptoms often worsen, and the infection can spread further, making recovery longer and more uncomfortable.
Is Swimmer’s Ear Contagious?
No, a swimmer’s ear is not contagious. It develops from bacteria growing inside your own ear canal, not from contact with another person.
How Long Does It Take to Feel Better After Treatment?
Many people notice relief within 24 to 48 hours after starting treatment. Full healing typically occurs within one to two weeks, depending on the severity of the infection.
Why Choose Surgical Associates Northwest?
Surgical Associates Northwest has been a trusted pillar of the community for 40+ years, having cared for generations of families across the South Sound. Our ENTs believe that you deserve easy access to care, so you’re not waiting weeks to be seen, like you might with hospital-based ENT groups. If ear pain is disrupting your life, schedule a consultation for swimmer’s ear in Auburn or Federal Way, WA, and start feeling better sooner.
