Minor Ailments

Swimmer’s Ear

Treat swimmer’s ear quickly and comfortably with effective remedies and caring pharmacist guidance from RxHealthMed.

What Is Swimmer's Ear?

Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal that typically develops when water lingers in the ear after swimming or bathing, creating a warm, moist environment where bacteria or fungi can take hold. It can also result from scratching inside the ear or using objects that irritate the canal lining. While it can be quite painful, swimmer’s ear responds well to treatment and usually clears up quickly with the right care. Your RxHealthMed pharmacist can help you find the right remedy and share tips to prevent it from happening again.

Swimmer's Ear Symptoms to Watch For

Swimmer’s ear usually starts with itching and redness inside the ear, followed by pain that gets worse when the outer ear is touched or tugged. You may also notice some discharge from the ear, a mild reduction in hearing, or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear canal.

How Your RxHealthMed Pharmacist Can Help

Your RxHealthMed pharmacist can recommend over-the-counter ear drops to treat mild swimmer’s ear and suggest appropriate pain relief options. For more stubborn infections, they can help determine whether prescription antibiotic ear drops are needed and point you in the right direction if further care is required.

Find Swimmer's Ear Treatment Near You

Visit an RxHealthMed pharmacy near you for quick advice and treatment options for swimmer’s ear. Walk in at your convenience and we will be happy to help.

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about swimmer’s ear? Here you will find clear answers about causes, treatment options, how long it takes to heal, and steps you can take to prevent it from coming back.

What causes swimmer's ear?

Swimmer's ear develops when excess moisture sits in the ear canal, creating conditions where bacteria or fungi can grow. It can also be triggered by scratching the ear, using cotton swabs, or inserting anything that irritates the delicate skin inside the canal.

How is swimmer's ear treated?

Treatment usually involves antibiotic or antifungal ear drops. Milder cases may respond well to over-the-counter acidifying ear drops. Taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain while the infection clears.

How long does swimmer's ear last?

With the right treatment, swimmer's ear generally starts improving within a few days and clears up completely within 7 to 10 days. Leaving it untreated can cause symptoms to worsen and spread.

Can I prevent swimmer's ear?

After swimming or bathing, tilt your head to let water drain from each ear and gently pat the outer ear dry with a towel. Avoid putting cotton swabs inside the ear canal. Preventive ear drops made with a diluted vinegar and alcohol solution can also help keep the canal dry.

When should I see a doctor for swimmer's ear?

It is worth talking to a pharmacist or doctor if your pain is intense, symptoms are not improving after a couple of days, you develop a fever, or you have had ear surgery or a perforated eardrum, as certain treatments may not be appropriate for you.

Skip the clinic wait, feel better faster

Our pharmacists can assess symptoms and prescribe treatments for minor ailments.