Swimmer's ear, or otitis externa, is a condition where infection or inflammation occurs in the ear canal (the passage between the outer ear and the eardrum). While it primarily causes pain, itchiness, and inflammation, some may wonder if a swimmer's ear can also lead to dizziness.
This article will discuss the causes and symptoms of a swimmer's ear, how it can potentially cause dizziness, and the available treatment options for a swimmer's ear.
Causes, Signs, And Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear
Causes
- Water exposure: Dirty or contaminated water can carry bacteria into the ear canal through tiny openings in the skin.
- Cleaning: Using objects like fingernails or cotton buds to clean the ears can cause damage to the delicate tissues of the ear canal, leading to an infection.
- Other infection: An infection or inflammation in the middle ear can also spread to the ear canal and cause an infection.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes may have too alkaline earwax, which creates an environment where infectious bacteria can thrive.
- Folliculitis: An infected hair follicle within the ear canal, known as folliculitis, can result in a more widespread infection.
Symptoms
- Ear pain
- Itchiness
- Redness and swelling
- Discomfort or a feeling of fullness
- Drainage
- Dizziness
- Decreased hearing
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Jaw or neck pain
- Tinnitus
- Swollen lymph nodes
How Is Dizziness Caused?
Swimmer's ear mainly affects the outer ear canal. However, in some situations, it can cause dizziness; this happens because the ear canal is close to the balance organs in the inner ear. When the ear canal becomes inflamed or infected, it can interfere with the delicate balance system.
This disruption can lead to feelings of dizziness or unsteadiness. Malignant otitis externa is a severe infection affecting the ear canal and nearby areas, leading to dizziness and other problems. It's essential to remember that not everyone with a swimmer's ear will experience dizziness, but it can happen to some individuals.
When to Seek Medical Care?
If you have any of the swimmer's ear symptoms or experience persistent ear pain or fever, it's advisable to seek medical care. A healthcare professional can examine your ear, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Swimmer's Ear Treatment Options
- Ear Cleaning: The healthcare professional may clean the ear canal to remove debris, wax, and excess moisture.
- Antibiotic Ear Drops
- Antifungal Ear Drops
- Surgery
- Pain Medication
- Steroid Ear Drops
- Oral Antibiotics
- Ear Canal Packing: In rare cases, the healthcare professional may place a wick or packing material soaked in medication into the ear canal to deliver medication.
Bottom Line
In summary, while the swimmer's ear primarily causes pain and inflammation in the outer ear canal, it can potentially lead to dizziness in some cases due to its impact on the balance mechanisms. Prompt medical care can help promote healing and prevent complications associated with swimmer's ear. For same-day care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Burlington! Open seven days a week – no appointment needed.
