Swimmer’s ear disease is an infection of the external ear canal, the tube that runs from the eardrum to the outer ear door. The condition is usually caused by a buildup of water in the ear canal after swimming creating a moist environment conducive to bacterial growth. Putting fingers, swabs, or other objects in the ear can damage the top layer of skin in the ear canal and can also cause swimmer’s ear disease. Swimmer’s ear disease is also known as acute otitis externa or otitis externa. This infection is most commonly caused by bacteria invading the skin inside the ear canal. Swimmer’s ear disease can usually be treated with ear drops. Prompt treatment can help prevent complications and keep the infection from getting worse. Symptoms of swimmer’s ear disease are usually mild at first, but may worsen if left untreated or if spreading occurs. Swimmer’s ear disease is often categorized as mild, moderate or severe depending on its progression. Mild symptoms and signs 1. Itching of the ear canal; 2. Slight redness of the skin of the ear canal; 3. Increased discomfort when pulling on the outer ear (auricle) or pressing on the small “bump” in front of the ear (ear screen); 4. Bright, odorless fluid. Moderate exacerbation of the condition 1. Increased itching; 2. Increased pain; 3. Widening of the redness of the ear; 4. Increased discharge of fluid; 5. Discharge of pus; 6. Sensation of swelling in the ear, with partial obstruction of the ear canal due to swelling, fluid, and debris; 7. Decrease in hearing or inability to hear. Serious worsening of the condition 1. Severe pain that radiates to the face, neck, or side of the head; 2. Complete obstruction of the external ear canal; 3. Redness or swelling of the outer ear; 4. Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck; 5. Fever.