Ear infections are common occurrences, and most people will experience at least one in their lifetime. However, some ear infections can be more severe than others, particularly those that affect the outer ear.

Outdoor ear infections are one such infection that can become life-threatening if left untreated.

What are Outdoor Ear Infections?

Outdoor ear infections, also known as swimmer’s ear, is an infection that affects the outer ear and ear canal. It is caused by water that becomes trapped in the ear, providing a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi to thrive.

Swimmer’s ear is more common in children and is often caused by water activities, such as swimming, that cause water to become trapped in the ear canal.

However, swimmer’s ear can also affect adults, particularly those who spend a lot of time in the water.

The Symptoms of Outdoor Ear Infections

Swimmer’s ear presents with several symptoms that can become progressively worse if left untreated. The symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:.

Ear pain that worsens when the ear is touched or pulled
Itching in the ear canal
A feeling of fullness in the ear
Redness or swelling in the ear canal
Drainage from the ear
Fever and a general feeling of illness may also occur in severe cases

When Can Outdoor Ear Infections Be Life-Threatening?

Most outdoor ear infections can be treated with ear drops and do not pose any significant health risks. However, in some cases, an untreated ear infection can lead to serious complications.

Middle Ear Infection

A middle ear infection occurs when bacteria or viruses travel from the outer ear into the middle ear. This type of infection can cause severe pain, fever, and hearing loss.

If left untreated, a middle ear infection can lead to permanent hearing loss or even meningitis.

Meningitis

Meningitis is a severe medical condition that occurs when the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord become inflamed. Symptoms of meningitis can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, and a stiff neck.

Severe cases of meningitis can lead to permanent brain damage or death.

Necrotizing Otitis Externa

Necrotizing otitis externa is a rare but life-threatening complication of swimmer’s ear. It occurs when the infection spreads to the bone and tissue surrounding the ear canal.

Symptoms of necrotizing otitis externa can include severe pain, fever, swelling around the ear, and drainage from the ear. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent hearing loss or even death.

How to Avoid Outdoor Ear Infections

Although swimmer’s ear is a common infection, it can be prevented by taking the following precautions:.

Keep your ears dry. After swimming or showering, dry your ears thoroughly with a towel. Tilt your head to the side to drain water from the ears.
Avoid putting objects in your ears, including cotton swabs. These can irritate the ear canal and increase the risk of infection.
Wear earplugs when swimming to keep water out of your ears.
Avoid swimming in polluted water, which can increase the risk of infection.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the symptoms of swimmer’s ear, it is essential to seek medical attention. In most cases, swimmer’s ear can be treated with ear drops and will clear up within a few days.

However, if left untreated, it can lead to severe complications, including hearing loss and meningitis.

If you have a middle ear infection or show signs of necrotizing otitis externa, seek medical attention immediately. These conditions can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Conclusion

Outdoor ear infections, also known as swimmer’s ear, are a common infection that can become severe if left untreated.

Although swimmer’s ear can be treated with ear drops, complications such as meningitis and necrotizing otitis externa can be life-threatening. It is important to take precautions to prevent swimmer’s ear, such as keeping your ears dry and avoiding swimming in polluted water.

If you experience any symptoms of swimmer’s ear, seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications from occurring.