Red flags & when to go in person for Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)

Audience: adult

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal often caused by water exposure. Symptoms usually include ear pain, itching, redness, and sometimes discharge. Many cases can be managed safely through telemedicine by discussing symptoms and receiving advice on care. However, certain warning signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person. These include severe pain, fever, swelling around the ear, hearing loss, or symptoms that worsen despite treatment. Early in-person care can prevent complications. Telemedicine can help guide you on symptom management and when to seek urgent care. Remember, this guidance is educational and not a diagnosis. If you experience any red flags or feel unsure, seek in-person medical evaluation promptly.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening ear pain requiring urgent evaluation
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) indicating possible spreading infection
• Swelling or redness spreading beyond the ear suggesting complications

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild symptoms such as itching, mild pain, and redness
• Guidance on symptom management and ear care
• Advice on over-the-counter pain relief and ear drops
• Determining when in-person evaluation is needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or worsening pain needing physical examination
• Signs of spreading infection or abscess
• Hearing loss or significant discharge requiring diagnostic tests
• Cases needing prescription antibiotics or specialized treatment

What is Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)?

Swimmer’s ear is an infection or inflammation of the ear canal, usually caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming. This moist environment can allow bacteria or fungi to grow. Common symptoms include ear pain, itching, redness, swelling, and sometimes fluid drainage. It is often uncomfortable but usually not serious if treated early.

When Can Telemedicine Help?

Telemedicine can help you describe your symptoms and get advice on managing mild cases of swimmer’s ear. A healthcare provider can guide you on cleaning the ear safely, recommend over-the-counter pain relief, and suggest when to use ear drops. This approach works well if symptoms are mild and you have no serious warning signs.

Red Flags: When to See a Healthcare Provider in Person

Certain signs mean you should get in-person care promptly:

These may indicate a more serious infection or complication that needs physical examination and possibly prescription medication.

How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the advice given by your healthcare provider, which may include:

If you develop any red flags, seek in-person care immediately.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit place for your tele-visit
• Be ready to describe your symptoms clearly, including onset and severity
• Have a list of any medications or treatments you have used
• If possible, have someone assist you in checking your ear
• Prepare to answer questions about fever, pain, hearing changes, and discharge

After your tele-visit

• Use recommended ear drops or medications as instructed
• Keep the ear dry and avoid swimming or inserting objects
• Take pain relievers if advised by your provider
• Monitor symptoms daily for improvement or worsening
• Seek in-person care if red flags develop or symptoms do not improve

FAQs

Can I treat swimmer’s ear at home without seeing a doctor?

Mild cases of swimmer’s ear may improve with home care, such as keeping the ear dry and using over-the-counter pain relievers. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider, especially if symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days.

Is it safe to swim if I have swimmer’s ear?

It is best to avoid swimming until the infection has cleared to prevent worsening symptoms and re-infection. Keeping the ear dry helps the healing process.

When should I seek emergency care for swimmer’s ear?

Seek emergency care if you experience severe ear pain, high fever, swelling spreading around the ear or face, hearing loss, or if you notice thick, foul-smelling, or bloody discharge. These signs may indicate a serious infection.

Can telemedicine providers prescribe ear drops?

Depending on local regulations and the provider’s assessment, telemedicine providers may recommend or prescribe ear drops. However, some cases require in-person evaluation before prescription.

Sources

1. Otitis Externa — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Swimmer's Ear (Otitis Externa) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Otitis Externa (Swimmer’s Ear) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Otitis Externa — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have any red flags or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.