Patients who suspect that they (or a family member) have swimmer’s ear should contact their physician. A physician will perform a thorough physical examination of the ear and compile a thorough medical history to diagnose swimmer’s ear. A lighted instrument (otoscope) will be used to examine the ear canal and eardrum. The physician will also look for signs of infection, such as scaly or flaking skin, a cut in the skin or moisture trapped in the ear canal. If there is drainage from the ear canal, a sample of it may be examined under a microscope for the presence of bacteria or fungi.

In many cases, prescription medications are required to treat swimmer’s ear. These include antibiotics and antifungal medications that are usually taken in ear drop form. Oral medications (e.g., antibiotics in pill form) are not often necessary, unless the infection has spread outside the ear canal.

Over-the-counter (OTC) ear drops do not effectively treat swimmer’s ear, although they may help prevent it. It is important that patients consult their physician prior to using any type of medication (including OTC ear drops). If an ear drum contains even a small perforation, use of these products or flushing of the ear canal may cause additional problems (e.g., tinnitus, vertigo, hearing loss). Some of these complications may require surgery.

In addition, corticosteroids may be recommended to relieve itching and inflammation. Oral pain medications may also be prescribed. Most often, swimmer’s ear clears up within a week of beginning treatment.

Prior to use of medications, any drainage, debris or flaky skin is usually cleared from the patient’s outer ear and ear canal. This allows the medications to more effectively penetrate the area. A physician may clean the area using a suction device or a cotton-tipped probe. If the ear canal is swollen, a special wick may be placed inside it to help medication reach deeply into the ear canal.

While recovering from swimmer’s ear, patients will be asked to refrain from swimming, flying or scuba diving. In addition, they may be asked to alter their bathing habits to ensure that they do not trap water in their ears.

Patients may relieve discomfort by placing a warm (not hot) heating pad against the ear. OTC pain or anti-inflammatory medications may be used, although patients should consult their physician before taking these drugs.

Patients are urged to contact their physician if they develop new symptoms after treatment has begun. Such symptoms include fever, redness of the skin behind the ear, increased pain and increased drainage. In severe or recurrent cases of swimmer’s ear, a physician may refer the patient to an ear, nose and throat specialist (otolaryngologist).