Swimmers ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection in the outer ear canal that is often caused by water that remains in the ear, creating a moist environment that aids the growth of bacteria. It can also be caused by putting fingers, cotton swabs, or other objects in the ear, which can damage the thin layer of skin lining the ear canal. Swimmers ear is more common among children in their teens and young adults, and it may occur with a middle ear infection or a respiratory infection such as a cold. The symptoms of swimmers ear are usually mild at first, but they can worsen if the infection isnt treated or spreads. The most common symptoms include:

• Itching in the ear canal
• Slight redness inside the ear
• Mild discomfort thats made worse by pulling on the outer ear or pushing on the little "bump" in front of the ear
• Some drainage of clear, odorless fluid
• Ear pain that gets worse when the outer part of the ear is pulled or pressed on
• Swelling of the ear canal
• Pus draining from the ear, which may be yellow or yellow-green and may smell
• Swollen glands in the neck
• Muffled hearing or hearing loss
• A full or plugged-up feeling in the ear
• Fever

Swimmers ear can usually be treated with eardrops, and prompt treatment can help prevent complications and more serious infections. To prevent swimmers ear, it is recommended to keep the ears as dry as possible, use earplugs when swimming or showering, and avoid scratching or cleaning the ear canal with cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects.