Swimmer’s ear

Caused by a bacterial infection resulting from failure to dry the ear adequately following swimming. Symptoms of this condition include itching, a greenish-colored discharge, pain when chewing, and a blocked feeling of the ear.


A nonemergency condition that results from inflammation in the external ear canal created by the growth of infecting organisms, usually contracted during swimming.


Alternate name for otitis externa, inflammation or infection of the outer ear, a common type of ear and hearing problem.


An infection in the ear canal, often caused by swimming in polluted water. The medical term for the condition is otitis externa. This condition usually begins with a blocked feeling and itching of the ear. These feelings may progress to intense pain caused by swelling of the tissue in the ear canal pressing against surrounding bone. There may also be tenderness just outside the ear canal, swollen glands in the neck, and a discharge from the ear, which may be a yellow, foul-smelling pus or a milky liquid. The discharge may block the ear canal and impair hearing.


Tendinitis or tears of the rotator cuff muscle caused by a strain on the shoulder joint produced by the constant motion of a person swimming. Swimmer’s shoulder can be prevented by resting the shoulder regularly between swims and stopping a swim at the first sign of shoulder pain. Proper swimming technique may help prevent swimmer’s shoulder. Weight lifting with lighter weights and increased repetitions may help condition the shoulders. Physical therapy is generally recommended for treating swimmer’s shoulder. Cortisone injections into the area may be recommended.


A type of external otitis seen in persons immersed in water, usually during the summer months. It is typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa and is treated with a suspension of neomycin, polymyxin B sulfate, and hydrocortisone.


 


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