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Protect Your Summer from Swimmer's Ear

Protect Your Summer from Swimmer's Ear | UPMC Italy

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on 31 July 2024 and updated on 3 August 2026.

Acute otitis externa, commonly known as “swimmer’s ear,” is one of the most prevalent ear infections during the summer months. Higher temperatures and increased time spent at swimming pools and beaches lead to prolonged exposure to water, which is the primary risk factor associated with the condition.

According to data from the Italian Society of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (SIOeChCF), incidence rates are highest among children aged 5 to 14 years, although the condition is also frequently observed in adults.

The following sections explain the symptoms and causes of swimmer’s ear and how to recognize, manage, and prevent it.

What Causes Swimmer’s Ear?

Swimmer's ear, or otitis externa, is an inflammation of the canal that connects the eardrum to the outer ear. The main culprits are bacteria present in the water, which "invade" the ear canal. Persistent moisture in the ear can also encourage this inflammation.

What Are The Symptoms Of Swimmer’s Ear?

Some common symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:

  • Ear pain, starting mild and becoming intense.
  • A feeling of fullness in the ears.
  • Pain when touching the ear or during chewing.
  • Itching.
  • Watery or purulent discharge.

How Can Swimmer’s Ear Be Treated?

The most common remedy for swimmer's ear involves the use of ear drops containing antibiotics and cortisone to reduce inflammation. In some cases, oral antibiotics and pain relievers may be necessary.

How Can Swimmer’s Ear Be Prevented?

Want to avoid swimmer's ear? Follow these simple tips:

  • Keep your ears clean: avoid the formation of earwax plugs, which swell in water and encourage bacterial growth.
  • Avoid cotton swabs: they can cause abrasions in the ear canal, making it more susceptible to infections.
  • Don’t use earplugs while swimming: they can trap moisture in the ear.
  • Pay attention to symptoms: if you feel fullness, itching, pain, or notice a reduction in hearing after swimming, avoid diving back in.
  • Dry your ears well: after bathing, keep your ears clean and dry. If using a hairdryer, set it to the lowest temperature and keep it a meter away from the ear.

If ear discomfort or pain persists after swimming, do not ignore it. Prompt treatment can help prevent complications associated with swimmer’s ear. Book an appointment with the ENT specialists at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital for a thorough evaluation.