Commonly referred to as Swimmer’s Ear, outer ear infections (ear infections of the ear canal or ear drum) can occur in patients even without significant water exposure. Often, manipulation of the ear canal with cotton swabs or other foreign objects can incite an infection. Symptoms typically include pain with pressure on the ear, ear canal itchiness or pain, ear canal drainage, a foul smell, or a fullness or heaviness to the ear. Management includes thorough cleaning in our office as well as topical and/or oral antibiotics.
For people that spend long periods in the water, we recommend the use of custom ear protection to protect the outer ear from this type of infection.