Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is a common type of ear infection. It occurs when bacteria sit between the outside of the ear and the eardrum. It is most commonly associated with swimming because of the bacteria that can be in pool water or other sources of water that gets trapped in an ear. Kids and adults who have water stuck in their ears after swimming might experience this infection. Swimmer’s ear is a minor infection and usually isn’t the cause of major concern, but it’s important to know how long it typically lasts and when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.
For same-day swimmer’s ear diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week to provide exceptional summer care to the families in Livingston, NJ. Just walk-in today!
What is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear is a type of ear infection. It occurs in the outer ear canal outside of the eardrum. Like many infections, swimmer’s ear is caused by bacteria. Bacteria from the water in a river, lake, pool, or ocean can get stuck in the ear canal where it can grow and cause the infection. Ear infections like swimmer’s ear can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, which can vary from person to person based on severity. Seeking care from a medical provider can help you get the treatment you need to get over swimmer’s ear quickly.
Common signs and symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:
- Ear pain
- Itching
- Redness
- Discharge
- Feeling of fullness
- Hearing issues
- Fever, in some cases
How Is Swimmer’s Ear Treated?
A medical professional will usually prescribe ear drops that have two main effects. First, the ear drops usually contain antibiotics which kill the bacteria that is causing the ear infection. Second, the ear drops will have ingredients that help with soothing inflammation and the other symptoms associated with an ear infection. There are some situations where swelling caused by an ear infection makes it difficult to get the medicine to the source of the infection. In these cases, a medical provider might use a small sponge on a stick to distribute the medication. Suction tools are also used to remove pus and discharge from the ear if it is causing a blockage.
In general, with appropriate treatment, mild to moderate cases of swimmer’s ear will start improving within a couple days. Most people are fully recovered after a week of prescription ear drops. So, seeing a medical provider is the best way to get over this infection quickly.
Get Swimmer’s Ear Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Livingston
If you or someone experiences a loss of hearing, severe pain in their ear, or there is a discharge that is either pus-like or has blood in it, you should seek medical attention. Although it is rare, ear infections can spread deeper into the ear and cause serious problems with hearing and overall health. Early treatment with prescription ear drops can prevent the spread of the infection and help you overcome your symptoms quickly. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Livingston for same-day swimmer’s ear diagnosis and treatment. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, contact us directly at (973) 601-2626.
