Types of Ear Infections: Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear)
Otitis externa (swimmer's ear) is a type of
ear infection of the outer ear or outer ear canal. It can cause the ear to itch or become red and inflamed so that head movement or touching of the ear is very painful. There may also be pus that drains from the ear.
Getting contaminated water in the ear can give people this type of ear infection. Swimmer's ear usually occurs within a few days of getting contaminated water or placing contaminated objects in the ear.
Swimmer's ear is not the same as the common childhood middle ear infection. If you can wiggle the outer ear without pain or discomfort, then your ear infection is probably not swimmer's ear.
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