![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/mwent.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Woman-with-a-swimming-cap-on-in-the-pool.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nSwimmer\u2019s ear, or otitis externa, is an ear canal infection that occurs when water gets trapped in the ear, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow<\/a>. This condition is termed \u201cswimmer\u2019s ear\u201d because it frequently affects people who swim regularly, especially in waters with high bacterial content. Symptoms may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If left untreated, fluid blockage, swelling and inflammation can lead to conductive hearing loss<\/a>. Though hearing loss can be concerning, it typically resolves once the infection is treated. Untreated swimmer\u2019s ear can lead to serious complications, including long-term infection, deep tissue infection, damage to bone and cartilage or widespread infection. To avoid these complications, consult your Midwest ENT expert for diagnosis and treatment at the first sign of symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The risk of swimmer\u2019s ear shouldn’t keep you from enjoying poolside fun with your family. A few key ways you can help prevent swimmer\u2019s ear include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n By following these simple tips, swimmer\u2019s ear doesn\u2019t have to dampen your summer fun. Click here<\/a> to read more about swimmer\u2019s ear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
How Can Swimmer\u2019s Ear Affect Hearing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Can You Protect Against Swimmer\u2019s Ear?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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