Swimmer’s Ear in Upstate South Carolina: Prevention and Treatment Tips

Summers in Upstate South Carolina can be hot, humid, and filled with opportunities to cool off at the pool, lake, or water park. While swimming is a favorite way to beat the heat, it can sometimes lead to a common ear condition known as swimmer’s ear.

Here’s what Easley residents need to know about swimmer’s ear — from symptoms and causes to prevention and treatment options.

What Is Swimmer’s Ear?

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the ear canal — the passage that connects your outer ear to your eardrum. This condition occurs when moisture becomes trapped inside the ear, allowing bacteria or fungi to grow.

Although it’s often associated with swimmers, anyone can develop swimmer’s ear, especially during the summer months when water exposure increases.

Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear

Swimmer’s ear can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Itching or irritation inside the ear
  

• Redness or swelling in the outer ear
  

• Pain, especially when tugging the earlobe
  

• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
  

• Muffled hearing
  

• Discharge from the ear (may appear yellow or green and have an odor)
  

• Tender lymph nodes near the ear or neck
  

• Occasionally, fever

If symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days, medical evaluation is recommended.

Common Causes of Swimmer’s Ear

The most common cause is water becoming trapped in the ear canal — from swimming, showering, or even using cotton swabs. This moisture breaks down the skin’s natural barrier and removes protective earwax, making it easier for bacteria or fungi to enter and cause infection.

While all types of water can contribute, natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, and oceans carry a higher risk due to the presence of more bacteria and pollutants.

Tips to Help Prevent Swimmer’s Ear

Protecting your ears can reduce your risk of developing an infection:

✅ Keep ears dry – After swimming or bathing, dry your ears thoroughly by tilting your head and allowing water to drain. Gently dry the outer ear with a towel. Avoid inserting objects deep into the ear canal.

✅ Use ear protection – Swim caps or waterproof earplugs may help limit water exposure.

✅ Avoid cotton swabs – Swabs can irritate the ear canal and push debris deeper inside, increasing the risk of infection.

✅ Don’t remove earwax – Earwax provides a natural defense against infection. Unless directed by a provider, avoid earwax removal.

✅ Avoid swimming in polluted water – Pay attention to local water quality advisories, especially in lakes or rivers.

How Is Swimmer’s Ear Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause:

• Antibiotic ear drops are often prescribed to treat bacterial infections.
  
  
• Antifungal drops may be used if the infection is fungal.
  
  
• Steroid drops can help reduce inflammation and swelling.
  
  
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, may ease discomfort.
  
  

Your ENT in Easley may also recommend keeping the ear dry and avoiding water activities until the infection resolves.

When to See an ENT in Upstate South Carolina

If your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, or if you’re experiencing recurring infections, it’s time to consult an ENT specialist in Easley.

Complications from untreated swimmer’s ear can include:

• Chronic or repeated infections
  
  
• Temporary hearing loss
  
  
• Infection spreading to nearby tissues
  
  

Early intervention can help prevent complications and protect your long-term ear health.

Trust Easley ENT for Ear Infection Care

Whether you’re dealing with swimmer’s ear or other recurring ear issues, Easley ENT is here to help. Our team provides personalized care for residents of Upstate South Carolina, helping you manage symptoms, treat infections, and maintain ear health all year long.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can support your hearing and ear health — so you can get back to enjoying the summer with confidence.