Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)
An external or outer ear canal infection is known as a swimmer’s ear. The outer ear canal separates the ear opening from the ear drum. Otitis externa is the medical word for this condition. It frequently happens after swimming, but it can also come from other things, including hearing aids, cotton swabs, certain skin disorders, or anything else that harms the ear canal’s skin. Water produces a wet environment that encourages the growth of bacteria and the infection of the ear canal.
Mild to severe symptoms are possible. These include discomfort, ear and ear canal redness, ear pressure, and discharge. The pain gets stronger when the outer ear is pulled or when the cartilage at the front of the ear is pushed, a typical indication of a swimmer’s ear. Itching, ear fullness or pressure, and diminished hearing are other symptoms. In extremely rare circumstances, this can worsen and result in pain all over the neck and face, fever, or swollen lymph nodes.
In most instances, a long-term injury is unusual. However, resistant bacteria, skin disorders (dermatitis, psoriasis), and other factors might cause the infection to become chronic.
