Summer swimming, travel, and increased time outdoors can sometimes lead to a not-so-fun seasonal issue: ear infections. While many people associate ear infections with children, adults can experience them too, especially during the warmer months.
One common summer condition is swimmer’s ear, an infection of the outer ear canal that can develop when water becomes trapped in the ear after swimming or water activities. Ear infections can also occur alongside seasonal allergies, sinus congestion, or upper respiratory illnesses.
Common symptoms may include:
- Ear pain or pressure
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Trouble hearing or muffled hearing
- Drainage from the ear
- Itching or irritation
- Fever, especially in children
To help reduce the risk of ear infections this summer:
- Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering
- Avoid inserting cotton swabs deep into the ear canal
- Wear earplugs if prone to swimmer’s ear
- Stay on top of allergy or sinus symptoms
- Avoid swimming in water that may be contaminated
If ear pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, drainage, or hearing changes, it is important to get evaluated. Our providers can help determine whether symptoms are related to swimmer’s ear, a middle ear infection, allergies, or another condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Whether it is a child waking up with ear pain after a pool day or an adult experiencing lingering pressure and discomfort, Marque Urgent Care is here to help seven days a week with both in-person and virtual care options.
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