The warm months of summer are behind us, and the cooler autumn months are ahead. Many of us have enjoyed hours swimming in lakes and rivers and may have now moved to pools and hot tubs. While it may sound like the risks of swimmer’s ear infections are behind you, they have many sources. In addition to pools and rivers, they can also be caused by baths, showers, and even hot tubs. With the cold season being upon us, it can be difficult to determine if that infection is a swimmer’s ear infection or a middle ear infection. This guide will help you know the difference and give a couple of tips about preventing swimmer’s ear infections.

How To Know If It’s A Swimmer’s Ear Infection

It’s common for a middle-ear infection to be mistaken for a swimmer’s ear infection, but there are ways to tell them apart. It starts with location. Swimmer’s ear infections form in the outer canal area of the ear, outside the eardrum. Middle-ear infections form in the middle ear, behind the eardrum. As you might suspect, this can result in similar but also very different symptoms. 

Consider the following questions and what they mean for your ear infection:

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are both acceptable options for controlling pain and discomfort from these infections. They can ease the discomfort caused by swelling and other symptoms of the infection. A warm compress on the ear will often ease pain from a swimmer’s ear infection. While these ease the symptoms, you’ll need antibiotics to treat the infection.

When To Reach Out To Your Health Professional

A visit to your doctor’s office may be in order if you’re experiencing symptoms like the above. However, swimmer’s ear infections can often be treated via telemedicine options. Middle-ear infections may require a visit to the office for a physical inspection, however. It pays to call your doctor’s office and describe your symptoms in either case and follow their advice.