Swimmer’s ear: Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management Strategies for Athletes

Abstract

Otitis externa, commonly known as a swimmer’s ear, is an inflammation of the external auditory canal, often caused by bacterial infection, primarily affecting individuals engaged in water activities. Acute otitis externa is the most prevalent form among swimmers, characterized by symptoms such as ear pain, itching, and discharge. This article explores the epidemiology, anatomy, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of otitis externa, highlighting the condition's prevalence in warm, humid climates and its exacerbation by water exposure.

Differential diagnosis is crucial to distinguish a swimmer's ear from other ear conditions, such as acute otitis media. Preventive measures, particularly for athletes, include the use of earplugs, drying ears after water exposure, and avoiding ear trauma. Treatment typically involves topical antibiotics, with the addition of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain. Severe cases may require oral antibiotics or surgical intervention.

Complications of untreated otitis externa might lead to hearing loss and could be life-threatening. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital to avoid severe outcomes and ensure optimal recovery for athletes and other affected individuals.

Aim

The aim of this study is to gather and analyse the current state of knowledge about the pathogenesis, symptoms, diagnosis and the treatment of swimmer’s ear.

Methods

The study contains data available in freely accessible databases like PubMed, the National Library of Medicine, Google Scholar. While searching the keywords such as swimmer’s ear, otitis externa, swimming hygiene, ear infections were used. Articles were selected based on their title, abstract and were written in English.