What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)

Audience: adult

Swimmer’s ear, also called otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal. After a telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider may suggest treatments like ear drops to reduce infection and pain. You will likely receive advice on how to keep your ear dry and avoid irritants. Follow-up may be needed if symptoms do not improve or worsen. It is important to watch for signs like severe pain, fever, or spreading redness, which require urgent care. Telemedicine can often help with diagnosis, treatment advice, and monitoring, but some cases may need in-person care for a thorough exam or advanced treatment. This guide explains what to expect after your telemedicine visit and how to care for your ear safely at home.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe, worsening ear pain not relieved by medication — seek urgent medical care
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) accompanying ear symptoms — get immediate evaluation
• Spreading redness or swelling around the ear or face — requires prompt in-person assessment

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment and diagnosis of swimmer’s ear based on symptoms and history
• Providing treatment recommendations such as prescribing ear drops
• Guidance on home care and symptom management
• Monitoring symptom progress through follow-up virtual visits

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a physical ear exam with specialized instruments
• Removing ear debris or foreign objects requiring in-person procedures
• Diagnosing or treating complications like abscess or cellulitis
• Managing severe infections needing intravenous antibiotics or surgery

What to Expect Immediately After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit for swimmer’s ear, your healthcare provider will usually recommend specific treatments. These often include prescription or over-the-counter ear drops to fight infection and reduce inflammation. You may also get advice on managing pain with over-the-counter pain relievers. Your provider will explain how to apply ear drops correctly and how often to use them. Keeping your ear dry is important to help it heal, so you might be advised to avoid swimming, avoid inserting objects into your ear, and protect your ear from water during bathing.

How to Care for Your Ear at Home

Proper ear care helps speed recovery. Keep your ear dry by using a shower cap or ear plugs when bathing. Avoid scratching or inserting cotton swabs or other objects into your ear canal. Use ear drops exactly as prescribed, completing the full course even if symptoms improve early. If pain or swelling is present, applying a warm compress outside the ear may help relieve discomfort. Rest and avoid activities that may irritate the ear until it heals.

When to Expect Improvement

Most people start to feel better within a few days of starting treatment. Pain and swelling usually decrease gradually. If your symptoms improve, continue treatment as directed until the infection clears. If you do not notice improvement within 3 to 5 days, or if symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Sometimes, an in-person visit or additional treatments may be needed.

Warning Signs That Need Urgent Care

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

These signs may indicate a more serious infection or complication requiring urgent in-person care.

Follow-Up After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine visit or recommend an in-person exam if symptoms persist or worsen. Follow-up helps ensure the infection is clearing and that no complications have developed. If you were prescribed medication, your provider may check for side effects or adjust treatment if needed. Always keep your provider informed about any changes in your condition.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit place for your telemedicine visit
• Have a list of your current symptoms and when they started
• Prepare a list of any medications or allergies you have
• Have a way to show your ear to the provider if requested (camera or good lighting)
• Be ready to describe any pain, discharge, or hearing changes
• Have pen and paper or device ready to take notes on instructions

After your tele-visit

• Use prescribed ear drops exactly as directed
• Keep your ear dry during bathing and avoid swimming
• Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs into your ear canal
• Monitor your symptoms daily for improvement or worsening
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve in 3–5 days or if red flags appear
• Attend any scheduled follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits

FAQs

Can I swim while I have swimmer’s ear?

It is best to avoid swimming until your infection has fully healed. Water can worsen the infection and delay healing. Protect your ear from water exposure during bathing by using a shower cap or ear plugs.

How do I apply ear drops correctly?

Tilt your head so the affected ear faces upward. Gently pull the earlobe to straighten the ear canal. Place the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal without touching the dropper to your ear. Keep your head tilted for a few minutes to allow the drops to penetrate. Follow your provider’s instructions on frequency and duration.

What if my symptoms don’t improve after treatment?

If you do not notice improvement within 3 to 5 days, or if symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider. You may need a re-evaluation to adjust treatment or to have an in-person exam.

Is swimmer’s ear contagious?

Swimmer’s ear is usually caused by bacteria or fungi in the ear canal and is not contagious from person to person. However, keeping your ears clean and dry helps prevent infection.

Can I use pain relievers during treatment?

Yes, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Use them as directed on the package or by your healthcare provider.

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: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
4. Otitis Externa — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance cannot replace an in-person examination when needed. Always seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms or warning signs.