Swimmer's ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the ear canal. If your child sticks a finger in their ear and it hurts, they might have swimmer's ear. This type of ear infection differs from the more common middle ear infection, otitis media, which often comes with a cold.

Swimmer's ear happens when bacteria grow in the ear canal, the passageway to the eardrum. Normally, water can flow in and out without issues, like when your child bathes or showers. But if water stays in the ear canal, like when swimming a lot, bacteria can multiply, leading to redness and swelling.

It can also occur without swimming if there's a scratch or irritation in the ear canal. Early signs include itching. Tell your child not to scratch, as this can worsen the infection. Ear pain is the most common symptom, and even touching the outside of the ear can hurt. The swelling might also make it harder to hear.

If your doctor suspects swimmer's ear, they'll prescribe antibiotic ear drops. Sometimes, a tiny sponge called a wick is used to keep the medicine in contact with the infected area. It's crucial to use the drops as prescribed, even if the ear starts feeling better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return.

For pain relief, your doctor might suggest over-the-counter pain relievers. This helps your child feel better while the antibiotics work.

Now, the big question: When can they swim again? It's best to wait until your doctor gives the green light, usually around a week to 10 days. It might be frustrating, especially during summer, but it's essential to prevent that painful infection from returning.

If swimmer's ear is a recurring issue or your child swims a lot, consider preventive measures. Special ear drops can dry out water in the ear after swimming, keeping those ears healthy all summer long.

Thank you for watching! Keeping these tips in mind can help your child enjoy their swim time without the pain of swimmer's ear. If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to reach out to your pediatrician. We are always here to help!

Take care and have a wonderful, safe summer!

Dr. Melanie Suaris is a board certified pediatrician serving Nicklaus Children’s Pediatric Care Center at Galloway (Kendall)