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Condition

Pediatric Swimmer's Ear

Key points about swimmer's ear

  • Swimmer’s ear is also called otitis externa. It is an inflammation caused by infection of the external ear canal.
  • Water that stays in the ear canal during swimming may let bacteria and fungi grow.
  • Swimmer’s ear often clears up in 7 to 10 days when treated.
  • To help prevent swimmer’s ear, dry your child’s ears well after swimming or bathing. And gently clean your child’s ears.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Prevention and Risk Assessment

What is swimmer’s ear?

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Ear, Nose and Throat Treatment at Children's National Hospital

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PATIENT STORY

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Providers Who Treat Swimmer's Ear

    Departments that Treat Swimmer's Ear

    Ear, Nose and Throat (Otolaryngology)

    Our pediatric otolaryngology experts diagnose and treat a wide range of pediatric ear, nose and throat disorders.