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Swimmer's Ear
Alternate Names : Ear Infection - Outer Ear - Acute, Otitis Externa - Acute
Definition Swimmer's ear is an inflammation, irritation, or infection of the outer ear and ear canal.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Swimmer's ear (otitis externa) is fairly common, especially among teenagers and young adults. Swimming in polluted water is one way to contract swimmer's ear. Swimming is not the only cause, however -- the condition can be caused by scratching the ear or an object stuck in it. Trying to clean wax from the ear canal, especially with cotton swabs or small objects, can irritate or damage the skin.
Swimmer's ear is occasionally associated with middle ear infection (otitis media) or upper respiratory infections such as colds. Moisture in the ear predisposes the ear to infection from fungus or water-loving bacteria such as Pseudomonas.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Swimmer's Ear Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Swimmer's Ear Symptoms & Signs
• Swimmer's Ear Prevention
• Swimmer's Ear Diagnosis & Tests
• Swimmer's Ear Treatment
• Swimmer's Ear Prognosis
• Swimmer's Ear Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Common Cold
• Ear Infection - Acute
• Malignant Otitis Externa
• Swimmer's Ear - Chronic
Other Topics
• Earache
• Fever
• Pain Medications
Review Date : 8/27/2003
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. editorial. Previously reviewed by Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network(8/17/2001).
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