Your ear likely hurts after swimming due to a condition commonly known as swimmer's ear, or otitis externa. This infection occurs in the outer ear canal and can be quite painful. Here’s a breakdown of why this happens:
What Causes Swimmer's Ear?
Swimmer's ear is primarily caused by water, often contaminated, remaining in the ear canal after swimming. This creates a moist environment where bacteria and fungi can thrive, leading to infection. This condition is not the same as a middle ear infection, which is more common in children.
How Does the Infection Develop?
| Step | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 1 | Water Entry: Water gets trapped in the ear canal during swimming. |
| 2 | Contamination: The water may contain bacteria or fungi. |
| 3 | Ideal Environment: The warm, moist environment fosters microbial growth. |
| 4 | Infection: Bacteria or fungi multiply, causing inflammation and pain. |
Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear
- Ear pain, which can range from mild to severe
- Itching inside the ear
- Redness and swelling of the ear canal
- Discharge from the ear, which may be clear, white, or yellow
- Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
- In some cases, decreased hearing
How to Prevent Swimmer's Ear
Here are some strategies to help prevent swimmer's ear:
- Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming: Use a soft towel or a hair dryer on a low, cool setting to help dry the ear canal.
- Tilt your head to each side to allow trapped water to drain out.
- Consider using earplugs while swimming to prevent water from entering the ear canal.
- Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal, as this can push debris further in and irritate the ear canal.
- Use ear-drying drops after swimming.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent ear pain or notice discharge, it's important to see a doctor. They can accurately diagnose the problem and prescribe appropriate treatment, such as antibiotic ear drops. Ignoring an ear infection could lead to more serious complications.
Note: The reference states: “Ear infections can be caused by leaving contaminated water in the ear after swimming. This infection, known as "swimmer's ear" or otitis externa, is not the same as the common childhood middle ear infection. The infection occurs in the outer ear canal and can cause pain and discomfort.”
