Wellmetry Health - Ear Infection vs. Swimmer's Ear: What's the Difference?

Ear Infection vs. Swimmer's Ear: What's the Difference?

Understanding the Symptoms, Treatment, and When Telehealth

Can Help

Ear pain can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but not all ear infections are the same. Two of the most

common causes of ear pain are middle ear infections and swimmer's ear. Although they share some

symptoms, they affect different parts of the ear and require different treatments.

At Wellmetry Health, we can often evaluate ear pain through a telehealth visit, recommend appropriate

treatment, and determine whether an in-person examination is necessary.

What Is a Middle Ear Infection?

A middle ear infection (also called otitis media) occurs behind the eardrum. It often develops after a cold,

sinus infection, allergies, or another upper respiratory infection when fluid becomes trapped behind the

eardrum.

Common symptoms include:

Deep ear pain or pressure

Decreased hearing

Fever

Feeling of fullness in the ear

Recent cold or sinus congestion

Children may become fussy or pull at their ears

Middle ear infections are especially common in children but can also occur in adults.

What Is Swimmer's Ear?

Swimmer's ear (also called otitis externa) is an infection of the ear canal—the passage leading from the

outside of the ear to the eardrum.

Despite its name, you don't have to go swimming to develop swimmer's ear. It can occur after:

Swimming

Showering

Excess moisture in the ear

Cleaning the ear with cotton swabs

Scratching the ear canal

Wearing earbuds or hearing aids for prolonged periods

Moisture and minor skin irritation allow bacteria to grow in the ear canal.

Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear

Swimmer's ear often causes:

One of the biggest clues is that the ear becomes very painful when the outer ear is moved.

Can Telehealth Help?

Yes. Telehealth is often an excellent first step for evaluating ear pain.

During your virtual visit, your healthcare provider will review:

Your symptoms

In many cases, treatment can be started during your telehealth visit. If your symptoms suggest a ruptured

eardrum, severe infection, significant hearing loss, or another condition requiring a physical examination,

you'll be advised to seek in-person care.

When Should You Seek Emergency Care?