Swimmer’s ear is a bacterial infection found in the outer ear canal, typically developed after swimming. This bacteria is common in water and soil, which, while innocuous, can induce a host of painful and aggravating symptoms.

Swimmer’s ear’s symptoms include:

• Liquid build-up and drainage in ear – produces hollow, popping sound
• Redness inside of ear canal
• Lingering pain inside of ear
• Pus discharge
• Difficulty hearing – due to liquid build-up

In worse cases, swimmer’s ear’s symptoms may also include:

• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Very limited hearing in infected ear
• Intense pain that spreads to neck and head

While bacteria is known to commonly linger in ponds and lakes, people can develop swimmer’s ear in pools as well. At AFC Urgent Care Watertown, we frequently see athletes competing in swimming or diving who come into our facility for swimmer’s ear treatment.

Our treatment plan for swimmer’s ears can take a couple different forms. For mild cases, our physicians may just clean out the patient’s ear. For worse cases, our center may prescribe medication to expedite the healing process. Our physicians often prescribe an acidic solution to clean out the bacteria. They may also prescribe antibiotics, which quickly eradicates the infection.

For swimmer’s ear treatment and diagnosis, visit us any day of the week. If you wish to speak with one of our medical professionals, call us at 617.923.2273. We look forward to getting you back to feeling 100%!