Once swimming season is in full swing, a sharp pain in the ear can spoil the fun of being in the water. The’swimmer's ear, also known as swimmer’s ear or otitis externa, affects the external auditory canal when moisture builds up there. It is distinctly different from childhood otitis media. Understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and adopting a few simple habits can often help prevent a lot of discomfort. Here’s a clear overview to help you better protect your ears—and those of your children—all summer long.
On this page
- Outer ear infection or middle ear infection: What's the difference?
- Why Standing Water Is a Problem
- Recognizing the Symptoms
- Preventing Swimmer's Ear
- Things to Avoid
- Special Considerations for Children
- When to consult
- Myths and misconceptions
- Frequently asked questions
Outer ear infection or middle ear infection: What's the difference?
The term «otitis» is often used to refer to a wide variety of conditions. The distinction depends on which part of the ear is affected. The’swimmer's ear affects the external auditory canal, which is the passageway leading from the outer ear to the eardrum. Otitis media, on the other hand, occurs behind the eardrum, in a cavity that communicates with the nose and throat.
Two types of damage, two mechanisms
- Otitis externa occurs mainly after prolonged exposure to water or moisture.
- Otitis media often occurs alongside a cold or a respiratory tract infection.
- The pain from an outer ear infection often gets worse when you touch or pull on the ear.
- Otitis media is more common in young children and may be accompanied by a fever.
| Element | Otitis externa (swimmer's ear) | Otitis media |
|---|---|---|
| Affected area | External auditory canal | Cavity behind the eardrum |
| Common trigger | Water, prolonged moisture | Cold, respiratory infection |
| Pain when touched | Often marked | Usually absent |
| Discharge | Possible, inside the duct | If the eardrum bursts |
| Most Affected Population | Swimmers of all ages | Young children |
This distinction is not merely a matter of vocabulary. It influences the recommended approach and preventive measures. Swimmer’s ear results from a «surface» problem in the ear canal, whereas otitis media is often caused by congestion originating in the nose and throat. That is why measures that protect against one do not necessarily prevent the other.
Why Standing Water Is a Problem
The ear canal is naturally protected by the earwax, a substance that repels water and limits the growth of microbes. When water becomes trapped in the canal, this protective barrier weakens, creating a moist environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Factors That Increase the Risk
- Frequent or prolonged swimming, whether in a pool or in natural bodies of water.
- A narrow ear canal that traps water more easily.
- Small lesions in the ear canal caused by scratching or using cotton swabs.
- Sensitive skin or skin prone to eczema around the ears.
- A hot, humid climate that slows down the natural drying process.
It is therefore not the water itself that «causes» an ear infection, but rather persistent moisture and the impairment of the ear canal’s natural protection. Water from swimming pools and lakes alike can be a contributing factor. In natural bodies of water, the presence of microorganisms varies by location and season. In swimming pools, poorly balanced water can also irritate the skin of the ear canal. In all cases, the common factor is prolonged moisture: the longer water remains in the ear canal, the more the protective barrier breaks down, leading to irritation.
To remember
- Swimmer's ear affects the external ear canal, not the part behind the eardrum.
- Moisture that gets trapped in the ear is the main trigger.
- Earwax plays a protective role, so it's best not to remove it.
- The pain often gets worse when you pull on the outer ear.
- Cotton swabs weaken the ear canal and increase the risk.
- Drying your ears thoroughly after swimming significantly reduces the risk.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The manifestations of the’swimmer's ear They often appear one or two days after swimming. They range from mild discomfort to more severe pain, depending on the severity of the irritation.
Common Signs
- A sensation of a blocked or full ear.
- Itching in the ear canal.
- Pain that worsens when touched or while chewing.
- Redness or swelling at the opening of the duct.
- Occasionally, a slight clear or cloudy discharge.
- Reduced hearing on the affected side.
These symptoms may resemble those of other ear problems. Only an evaluation by a healthcare professional can confirm the nature of the condition and rule out other causes.
The intensity of symptoms is not always proportional to their severity. A simple sensation of a blocked passage may signal the onset of irritation, while sharper pain at the slightest touch often indicates more severe inflammation. Noting when the symptoms first appeared, how they have progressed, and any recent water-related activities helps the healthcare professional better understand the situation during the evaluation.
Are you experiencing ear pain or discharge and would like a quick assessment? Our professionals can help guide you. Make an appointment at one of our service locations in Quebec, or choose a online consultation. Organizations, camps, and sports clubs that want to equip their teams with prevention tools can also explore our Business Offerings.
Preventing Swimmer's Ear
Visit prevention is based on a simple goal: keeping the ear canal as dry as possible after coming into contact with water. A few simple habits are often enough to reduce the risk.
Dry Your Ears
- Tilt your head to each side to help the water drain out.
- Gently pull on the ear to help clear it.
- Wipe the outer ear with a clean, dry cloth, without inserting any objects.
- A hair dryer set to a low heat setting and held at a distance can help dry out the vent opening.
Caps and Other Protective Covers
- Earplugs designed for swimming help keep water out.
- A headband or swim cap can provide additional protection for people prone to ear infections.
- Custom-made earplugs are available; a hearing care professional can recommend the appropriate model.
| Habit | Desired effect |
|---|---|
| Dry off after each swim | Reducing residual moisture |
| Wear the right earplugs | Limit Water Inflow |
| Avoid using cotton swabs | Preserving the Earwax Barrier |
| Treating Irritated Skin | Strengthen the protection of the conduit |
Things to Avoid
Some well-intentioned habits do more harm than good. The main one misstep refers to the thorough cleaning of the ear canal.
Cotton Swabs and Scraping
- Cotton swabs push earwax deeper into the ear and cause small abrasions.
- Scratching your ear with an object can damage the skin inside the ear canal.
- An irritated airway provides an entry point for germs.
Products Not Recommended
- Avoid using solutions or eye drops without consulting a healthcare professional.
- Do not use homemade remedies in an ear that is painful or running.
- Do not reuse eye drops prescribed during a previous episode without confirmation.
Special Considerations for Children
In children, the’swimmer's ear This occurs mainly during the summer, after a day at the pool or lake. The narrower ear canal sometimes traps more water.
Recognizing Discomfort in Toddlers
- A child who repeatedly touches or rubs his or her ear.
- Irritability or crying when the ear is touched.
- Disturbed sleep without a significant fever in cases of otitis externa.
This condition should not be confused with middle ear infections, which are more common in young children and are often associated with colds. To clearly distinguish between the two, see our article on Ear Infections in Children provides an update. If in doubt, a healthcare professional can guide the family and help them avoid any risky actions involving the child’s ear.
When it comes to prevention in children, the same principles apply: dry their ears thoroughly after swimming, avoid putting objects in their ears, and, if necessary, consider using earplugs that fit their size. For a child prone to repeated episodes, it may be helpful to discuss this with a healthcare professional to establish realistic preventive habits for the family during the swimming season.
When to consult
A temporary discomfort It sometimes clears up on its own with rest for the ear and careful drying. However, certain symptoms warrant seeking professional advice without delay.
Reasons for consultation
- Pain that worsens or lasts longer than a few days.
- Discharge, an odor, or swelling around the ear.
- Hearing loss that does not improve.
- Fever or general malaise.
- Episodes that recur frequently despite preventive measures.
A telemedicine consultation allows you to describe your symptoms, get personalized advice, and find out whether an in-person exam is necessary. Our healthcare professionals in Quebec can assist you with this evaluation.
Myths and misconceptions
«You have to clean the ear canal thoroughly with a cotton swab.»
False. Cotton swabs push earwax back into the ear and cause micro-tears. The ear canal cleans itself for the most part; all you need to do is wipe the opening with a cloth.
«Only competitive swimmers are affected»
False. Anyone exposed to water or moisture can develop an outer ear infection, including after a long shower or bath.
«Outer ear infection and middle ear infection—they're the same thing.»
False. They affect different areas of the ear and do not have the same triggers or treatment options.
«Just a little water in the ear is enough to cause an infection.»
Nuanced. Water alone isn't always enough. It's mainly trapped moisture, combined with a weakened protective barrier, that causes irritation.
«Earplugs reduce the risk»
True. Appropriate plugs limit water ingress and, when combined with proper drying, help prevent episodes in people who are prone to them.
Frequently asked questions
How long does swimmer's ear last?
The duration varies depending on the severity of the irritation and the treatment. A healthcare professional can tell you what to expect based on your situation.
Can you go swimming if you have an outer ear infection?
It is generally best to let your ear rest and stay dry until the irritation subsides. Consult a healthcare professional before resuming swimming.
How do you remove water trapped in your ear?
Tilt your head, gently pull on the outer ear, and wipe the entrance with a cloth. Never insert any object into the ear canal to try to remove the water.
Are children at greater risk?
Their narrower ear canals can trap water, but swimmer's ear can occur at any age. Prevention is the same for the whole family.
Should we avoid earwax entirely?
No. Earwax protects the ear canal. It’s best not to try to remove it from deep inside; just clean the outer part of the ear.
Is a telemedicine consultation helpful for an earache?
Yes, it allows you to describe your symptoms and get advice on whether an in-person exam is necessary, especially in cases of persistent pain.
Sources
- Canadian Paediatric Society
- Info-Santé 811 — Government of Quebec
- Quebec.ca — Health
- Ministry of Health and Social Services
- Quebec National Institute of Public Health (INSPQ)
- Quebec Order of Audiologists
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