Ear Pain After Swimming – Infection or Just Water in the Ear?

Written by: Ljubica Barbulović, MPharm

Ear pain after swimming is a very common problem during summer, especially in children and people who spend a lot of time in pools or at the beach. Sometimes the cause is only trapped water inside the ear canal, while in other situations an outer ear infection, also known as swimmer’s ear, may develop.

Many people are unsure how to distinguish simple trapped water from the beginning of an infection. Because of this, they often use cotton swabs, alcohol or aggressively try to clean the ear, which may actually worsen irritation and increase the risk of infection.

If you would like to learn more about swimmer’s ear, its causes and treatment, read our related guide: Why Does Swimmer’s Ear Develop and How Is It Treated?.

In this article you will learn:

• why ear pain occurs after swimming
• how to distinguish trapped water from infection
• which symptoms may indicate inflammation
• how to safely remove water from the ear
• which products may help
• when you should visit an ENT specialist

Why does ear pain occur after swimming?

During swimming, water may remain trapped inside the outer ear canal. A moist environment creates ideal conditions for bacteria and fungi, especially if the skin inside the ear is already irritated or damaged.

In some people the discomfort disappears quickly once the water leaves the ear. In others, pain, itching, pressure and blocked ears may develop, which can be the first sign of swimmer’s ear.

People at higher risk include:

• children
• frequent swimmers
• people who use cotton swabs regularly
• people prone to earwax buildup
• people with sensitive ear canal skin

Water in the ear or infection?

The most important difference is the intensity and duration of symptoms. Trapped water usually causes mild pressure or a blocked sensation, while infection typically causes stronger pain and inflammation.

How to remove water from the ear after swimming?

If you feel water trapped inside your ear after swimming, it is important to avoid aggressive cleaning.

• tilt your head toward the affected side
• gently pull the earlobe
• lie on the affected side for several minutes
• dry only the outer part of the ear with a towel
• avoid inserting cotton swabs deeply into the ear canal

People who frequently experience trapped water may benefit from products designed for ear hygiene and ear canal care.

When does ear pain indicate an infection?

If the pain becomes stronger instead of improving, especially when touching the ear or moving the outer ear, an infection may be developing.

Symptoms that may indicate infection include:

• strong ear pain
• itching and burning
• swelling around the ear canal
• warmth and throbbing sensation
• ear discharge
• reduced hearing
• fever

Ear pain in children after swimming

Children are especially prone to ear problems during summer because they spend long periods in water and often do not dry their ears properly afterward.

If a child after swimming:

• cries because of ear pain
• touches or pulls the ear
• hears poorly
• develops fever
• complains of blocked ears

the ear should be examined and aggressive cleaning should be avoided.