Swimmer's ear
Alternative Names
Ear infection - outer ear - acute; Otitis externa - acuteSymptoms
- Ear pain -- may worsen when pulling the outer ear
- Itching of the ear or ear canal
- Drainage from the ear -- yellow, yellow-green, pus-like, or foul smelling
Exams and Tests
The doctor will perform a physical exam, which includes looking inside the ears. The ear, including the ear canal, appears red and swollen. The skin inside the ear canal may be scaly or shedding.
Touching or moving the outer ear increases the pain. The eardrum may be difficult for the doctor to see because of a swelling in the outer ear.
The doctor may take a sample of fluid from the ear and send it to a lab so any bacteria or fungus can be identified.
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