Swimmer’s ear is a common health problem in hot, humid climates. It is an inflammation of the lining of the outer ear canal. In 98% cases it is caused by a bacterial infection. It is estimated that individuals living in receptive environments have a lifetime risk of 10%.
Risks
Apart from swimming, several other factors may contribute to the risk. These include:
- Obstruction due to wax
- Trauma caused by wax removal technique (cotton buds)
- Ear canal conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
- Narrow ear canals promoting water retention (commonly seen in cold water surfers – southern Australia)
- External devices such as hearing aids and ear phones
The frequent exposure of travellers to water sports (swimming, snorkelling and diving) predisposes to external ear infections. The retained moisture in the canals after swimming or showering promotes the growth of organisms such as bacteria and fungi. These may enter the skin through damage to the canal. The risk is higher when swimming in contaminated water. This is much more likely in countries where there is a lack of public health infrastructure in water and sanitation.
Symptoms of ear infection include:
- Itchiness followed by an earache
- Pain when the earlobe is pulled
- Deafness
The potential for swimmer’s ear should be considered when travelling to tropical climates, particularly if you have risk factors for the condition. Risk might be reduced in those prone to wax build up by using softening agents and removal prior to travel. Alcohol ear drops after exposure to water can help to evaporate any residual water. If available, a hair dryer can also be used after swimming/showering (not too hot or close!)
Treatment
If infection is suspected, stay out of the water until symptoms subside. Antibiotic ear drops may be indicated and are a useful addition to your kit, particularly if prone to ear canal infections.
Oral antibiotics are sometimes necessary in severe cases.
Occasionally a gauze tape impregnated with an antibiotic ointment needs to be inserted in the canal to reduce the swelling. In severe cases, a specialist might need to suction clean the debris from the ear canals.
