Swimmer's Ear

Alternate Names : Acute Otitis Externa, External Canal Infection

What are the treatments for the infection?

Swimmer's ear is usually treated with ear drops that contain antibiotics and steroids. One common medicine is hydrocortisone/neomycin/polymixin B. It is also very important to have the ear wax removed. If the infection spreads into the soft tissues around the ear, oral antibiotics may be needed. If the ear canal is particularly swollen, a wick may be inserted to draw the ear drops in.

Antifungal medicines will be prescribed for fungal infections. Over-the-counter pain medicines may be used for discomfort.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Some people have a neomycin skin sensitivity. This can cause a reaction in the ear canal very similar to poison ivy dermatitis. If the person continues to have itching and a lot of swelling of the ear canal, then the neomycin needs to be stopped. Other treatments that do not contain neomycin may be used.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

Successful treatment completely heals the ear canal.

How is the infection monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.