Frequent consultations · Infectious diseases
Otitis externa — widely known as swimmer’s ear — is an inflammation of the ear canal, and it is one of the most common reasons families staying near Playa de Muro and Alcúdia call us during the summer months. Constant swimming in the sea or pool leaves moisture trapped in the ear canal, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
Using cotton swabs, fingers, or earplugs to dry or clean the ear canal can make things worse, since it can damage the thin protective skin lining the canal.
Symptoms by stage
Mild
- Itching inside the ear canal
- Slight redness
- Mild discomfort when pulling the outer ear or pressing the small «bump» in front of the ear (tragus)
- Clear, odorless drainage
Moderate
- More intense itching and pain
- More visible redness
- Pus-like discharge
- A feeling of fullness or blockage
- Muffled hearing
Advanced
- Severe pain that can spread to the face, neck, or side of the head
- Complete blockage of the ear canal
- Swelling of the outer ear
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Fever
What helps, and what to avoid
- Keep the ear dry: use a shower cap or cotton ball coated in petroleum jelly while showering, and avoid swimming until the pain and discharge resolve
- Do not insert cotton swabs, fingers, or any object into the ear canal
- Do not attempt to remove discharge or debris yourself if the canal is swollen or painful — this can worsen the injury
- Prescription ear drops are usually needed to clear the infection; over-the-counter drops rarely resolve moderate or advanced cases
When to see a doctor
Contact your doctor for any signs of swimmer’s ear, even mild ones — early treatment resolves it faster and prevents progression. Seek immediate care for:
- Severe pain
- Fever
- Complete blockage of the ear canal or sudden hearing loss
Source: adapted from Mayo Clinic patient guidance on otitis externa.
If you need medical assistance, contact us — we treat swimmer’s ear regularly during the summer season and can prescribe the right ear drops the same day.
Dr. Diego González Agulla — Medical Director, Clinic Port Pollensa. Licensed physician, Balearic Medical Board (COMIB), Collegiate No. 073807071.
