Swimmer’s Ear

What is swimmer’s ear?

Swimmer's ear (also known as otitis externa, or ear ache) is an inflammation, irritation, or infection of the ear and/or outer ear canal. Swimmer’s ear can occur if contaminated water stays in direct contact with the ear canal for a long period of time.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:

• Itchiness inside the ear
• The ear becomes red and inflamed
• Pain when the infected ear is tugged or when the head is moved
• Yellow, yellow-green, pus draining from the infected ear

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear usually appear within a few days of getting contaminated water in the ear.

What is the treatment?

If you have swimmer’s ear, visit a Take Care Health Provider to determine the appropriate course of treatment for your specific case.