Swimmer's Ear

Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is a common ear infection caused by trapped water in the ear. As its name suggests, it can happen to swimmers and divers, as they often spend time with their head underwater, but trapped water can also happen when having a bath or shower. It's even been known to happen due to humid weather. Water left within the ear creates the perfect condition for bacteria to thrive in.

Signs of Swimmer's ear:

• Itchiness within the ear
• Redness inside the ear
• Swelling in the ear canal or outer ear
• Discomfort or pain
• Feeling of fullness in the ear
• Discharge
• Discomfort or pain while you're eating - or moving your jaw in general
• Muffled hearing in the affected ear

Symptoms often start quite mild and may get more severe over time.

If you think you may have an ear infection, contact your GP as soon as possible. They'll likely prescribe ear drops to fight the infection. It's important to get help sooner rather than later, to prevent your infection getting worse and causing more pain and discomfort.