As the summer sun draws families in Hendersonville, TN to the pool, lake, or backyard sprinkler, one uncomfortable and surprisingly common condition can sneak up and ruin the fun: swimmer’s ear. Especially for children, quick and effective treatment is key to getting back to summer fun.
In this post, we’ll explain what swimmer’s ear is, how to prevent it, and what to do if you or your child starts experiencing symptoms. We’ll also show you how Direct Primary Care (DPC) makes getting treatment easier, faster, and more affordable—without the headaches of traditional healthcare.
What Is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear, or acute otitis externa, is an infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal—the passage between the outer ear and the eardrum. Knowing the signs can help parents in Hendersonville act quickly.
It’s usually caused by bacteria that thrive in warm, moist environments. When water gets trapped in the ear after swimming, bathing, or sweating, it creates the perfect breeding ground for germs to grow.
While it’s most common in children and teens, anyone can get swimmer’s ear—regardless of swimming ability or age.
Common Causes of Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear doesn’t only come from the pool. Here are the main ways it can develop:
- Water exposure: Swimming, bathing, or even heavy sweating can leave moisture in the ear canal.
- Scratching or irritation: Cotton swabs, fingernails, earbuds, or hearing aids can damage the skin inside the ear, making it easier for bacteria to enter.
- Skin conditions: People with eczema or allergies may be more prone to ear canal infections.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Swimmer’s ear can start as a mild itch or discomfort and quickly escalate. Be on the lookout for:
- Ear pain, especially when tugging on the earlobe or pressing near the ear opening
- Itching inside the ear
- Redness or swelling
- Drainage from the ear (clear, yellow, or pus-like)
- A full or muffled feeling in the affected ear
- Sometimes, fever if the infection becomes more severe
How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear
Here are some tips to reduce the risk of swimmer’s ear:
- Dry your ears completely after swimming or bathing. Tilt your head to drain excess water, and use a hair dryer on a cool, low setting held a few inches away.
- Avoid putting anything in your ear canal, including cotton swabs and fingers.
- Use earplugs or a swim cap when swimming to help keep water out.
- Consider alcohol-based ear drops (if your eardrum is healthy) to help dry out trapped water. Ask your doctor before using drops, especially for children or if you have ear tubes.
- Keep earbuds and hearing aids clean and dry, and give your ears breaks from wearing them.
When to See a Doctor
Swimmer’s ear typically requires prescription treatment. If symptoms develop, don’t wait too long to seek care. If you’re a parent in Hendersonville, TN, and these symptoms arise, don’t hesitate to seek care. Timely treatment can prevent complications for your child. Contact a provider if you experience:
- Moderate to severe ear pain
- Swelling that extends beyond the ear
- Fever or signs of spreading infection
- Symptoms that don’t improve within a few days
- If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, as infections may be more serious
How Direct Primary Care (DPC) Makes Treatment Simple
If you’re a family in Hendersonville, TN and have ever dealt with long waits, confusing billing, or the runaround to see your doctor for something as common as swimmer’s ear, you’re not alone. That’s why more Hendersonville families are choosing Direct Primary Care (DPC). At Blue Ocean Direct Primary Care (Blue Ocean DPC) in Hendersonville, we offer a membership-based model that gives you direct access to your doctor without co-pays or insurance hassles. Here’s how we make treating swimmer’s ear easier than ever:
- Same-day or next-day appointments, often by video
- Direct messaging with your doctor (no phone trees or portals)
- No extra costs for office visits or virtual consults
- Discounted medications and in-office dispensing
- Ability to use tools like a home digital otoscope to send us pictures or videos of your ear—so we can diagnose and treat you remotely when needed We even recommend one we use ourselves:
We even recommend one we use ourselves:
👉 Digital Otoscope on Amazon
We may earn a small commission if you purchase through this link, but we only recommend products we trust and use personally.
You Don’t Have to Navigate Ear Infections Alone
Swimmer’s ear is a common, treatable condition—but early care is key. The good news? With a little prevention and the right kind of healthcare access, you can stay ahead of it and enjoy the rest of your summer worry-free.
If you’re not already a member of Blue Ocean DPC in Hendersonville, learn more about how our care model works, and see how we can support your family’s health with fewer obstacles and more personal connection right here in Hendersonville, TN.
And if you are a member—don’t hesitate to text or message us at the first sign of symptoms. We’re here to help you feel better, faster.
