What is
Swimmer's Ear
Swimmer's ear is a bacterial infection of the outer ear canal caused by prolonged moisture, irritation from cotton swabs or earbuds, or water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing. Symptoms include itching inside the ear canal, pain that worsens when the outer ear is pulled or pressed, redness and swelling, and
drainage from the ear. Treatment requires antibiotic ear drops applied directly into the ear canal — keeping
the ear completely dry during treatment is essential for recovery. Without treatment, the infection can progress from mild to severe, potentially spreading to surrounding bone and tissue especially in people with diabetes or weakened immune systems. Red flags requiring immediate care include severe or rapidly worsening pain, swelling spreading to the face or neck, high fever, sudden hearing loss, and facial drooping.
Common symptoms
Itching or mild redness inside the ear canal
Discomfort when touching or pulling the outer ear
Drainage from the ear
A feeling of fullness or muffled hearing
How your visit works
You'll complete a short online assessment describing your symptoms and health history. A licensed medical provider reviews it — usually within the hour — and determines the safest, most appropriate treatment. If a prescription is appropriate, it's sent directly to your pharmacy.
When to seek in-person or emergency care instead
Seek immediate care for severe pain, high fever, facial swelling, or significant hearing loss — especially if you're diabetic or immunocompromised.
What happens next
Quick assessment: about 10 minutes, from your phone or computer.
1
Provider review: a licensed medical provider evaluates your case, usually within the hour.
2
Treatment plan: sent to your pharmacy if a prescription is appropriate, in two hours or less.
3
No insurance needed
HIPAA compliant, confidential
Full refund if we can't treat you
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