Ear pain after swimming, showering, or prolonged use of cotton swabs? You may be suffering from external otitis , a common but often misunderstood inflammation. This guide helps you recognize the symptoms, understand the causes, and adopt the right treatments and preventative measures.

Understanding external otitis

Definition

Otitis externa is an inflammation of the external ear canal , often caused by moisture, microtrauma, or bacterial infection. It particularly affects swimmers, hence its nickname "swimmer's ear."

Difference from otitis media

Unlike otitis media (more common in children), otitis externa does not affect the inner or middle ear, but only the ear canal. It manifests as localized, sometimes intense, pain when the auricle is pressed or touched.

Who is concerned?

Those most at risk are those who regularly frequent swimming pools, water sports enthusiasts, and those who clean their ears too much or incorrectly. Poorly maintained hearing aids can also contribute to its development.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Common symptoms

The most common signs are:

• Pain in the outer ear (worse when touching or pulling the pinna)
• Sensation of blocked ears
• Clear or purulent discharge
• Temporary decrease in hearing

Medical examinations

An ENT doctor can make the diagnosis through a visual examination of the ear canal. No invasive tests are necessary unless complications or frequent recurrences occur.

Treatment and prevention

Drug treatments

Treatment often involves antibiotic and/or anti-inflammatory ear drops. In cases of severe pain, an oral pain reliever may be prescribed. It is recommended to avoid water and headphones throughout the treatment phase.

Natural solutions

Natural solutions also exist: applying gentle heat, vegetable oils (such as olive or calendula), or even an ear bath with physiological serum . These methods do not replace medical treatment but can provide temporary relief.

Prevention and advice

• Dry your ears thoroughly after each swim.
• Avoid intrusive objects (cotton swabs, tweezers, etc.)
• Clean hearing aids regularly
• Avoid sharing headphones

In the event of temporary hearing loss due to an ear infection or treatment, a temporary hearing aid like Spokeo can facilitate communication and limit isolation.

FAQ – Otitis externa

Can external otitis go away on its own?

In some mild cases, yes. But prompt treatment is recommended to avoid complications.

Can I swim with external otitis?

No. It is important to avoid any exposure to water until completely healed.

Does external otitis affect hearing?

It can temporarily block the ear and reduce hearing, but without long-term damage to hearing if treated properly.