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Jonathan Hughes | Hemel Hempstead

Specialist Care for Otitis Externa at Our London ENT Clinic

Also known as swimmer’s ear, is an infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal, which runs from the eardrum to the outside of the head. It is commonly caused by bacteria or fungi, often because of water exposure, which can create a moist environment conducive to infection. Other causes include ear trauma (from inserting objects into the ear), allergies, or skin conditions like eczema. Symptoms of otitis externa include itching in the ear canal, redness, swelling, pain, and fluid drainage from the ear. In severe cases, it can cause fever and swollen lymph nodes. Treatment typically involves cleaning the ear canal, using antibiotic or antifungal ear drops, and avoiding moisture in the ear until the infection is cleared.

If you think you might have otitis externa/swimmer’s ear. Get in touch with your ENT specialist in London to book a consultation today! 020 3897 0667

What causes otitis externa?

It develops when the skin lining the ear canal becomes inflamed or infected, usually by bacteria and sometimes fungi. The most common trigger is moisture, which is why it is nicknamed swimmer’s ear, but it is often set off by damage to the delicate canal skin from cotton buds, fingernails, or earphones, or by skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. A build-up of earwax or debris can trap water and make it more likely.

What are the symptoms of otitis externa?

Typical symptoms are itching, redness, and pain in the ear, which is often worse when you touch or pull on the outer ear or chew. Many people notice a feeling of fullness or muffled hearing as the canal swells, along with a watery or pus-like discharge. In more troublesome cases, there can be swelling that narrows the canal, tender glands around the ear, or a mild fever.

Can I get otitis externa from swimming?

Yes, and it is one of the most common triggers, which is where the name swimmer’s ear comes from. Water left sitting in the canal, especially from pools, lakes, or the sea, waterlogs the skin and creates the warm, damp environment where bacteria and fungi thrive. Frequent swimmers and divers are particularly prone. Drying the ears thoroughly after swimming and using well-fitted earplugs or a swim cap goes a long way towards preventing it.

How is otitis externa treated?

Most cases clear up with ear drops containing an antibiotic, often combined with a steroid to settle the inflammation, along with simple pain relief. A key part of treatment is cleaning the ear canal, which an ENT specialist can do with gentle microsuction so the drops can actually reach the infection, and if the canal is very swollen, a small sponge wick may be placed to carry the medication in. Keeping the ear dry throughout is essential, so no swimming and take care when showering.