Yes, swimmer's ear can be painful, especially if left untreated.
Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal. While the severity of pain can vary from person to person and depends on the stage of the infection, pain is a common symptom.
Here's a breakdown of the pain associated with swimmer's ear:
- Early Stages: The ear might feel itchy or slightly uncomfortable. There may be mild pain, especially when the ear is touched or when the jaw moves (chewing or talking).
- Advanced Stages: The pain can become more intense and persistent. The ear might feel very tender to the touch. Infection can spread to surrounding tissues causing significant pain.
- Complications: If swimmer's ear is not treated, the infection can spread beyond the ear canal to surrounding tissues, leading to cellulitis. Cellulitis can cause fever and significant pain.
Therefore, if you suspect you have swimmer's ear and are experiencing ear pain, it's essential to seek medical attention to prevent complications and manage the pain effectively.
