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February 10, 2012
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Swimmer's Ear (cont.)

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Swimmer's Ear Symptoms

  • The most common symptom of swimmer's ear is pain. Pain gradually begins over a day or two. The pain almost always involves only one ear. The pain is especially intense when the ear is touched or pulled.
  • The ear canal may itch.
  • The outer ear may be red, and in severe cases the ear canal may be swollen shut.
  • The ear may drain. This drainage may be clear, white, yellow, or sometimes bloody and foul smelling. Some fluid may crust at the opening of the ear canal.
  • With severe swelling or drainage, the person may have trouble hearing.
  • Ringing in the ear (tinnitus) and dizziness or vertigo may also be present.
  • Fever is generally not present. If there is a fever, it is not usually high.

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Swimmer's Ear - Causes

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Swimmer's Ear - Symptoms

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Otitis externa is an inflammation or infection of the external auditory canal and/or auricle.

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