Water in the ear after swimming hasn't come out for a full day.

Sep 26, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, if water remains in the ear for a full day after swimming, it may be related to excessive water entering the ear canal, blockage of the external auditory canal by cerumen (earwax), external otitis, otitis media, or furuncle of the external auditory canal. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. Additionally, this condition could also be associated with cholesteatoma of the external auditory canal. If patients experience any discomfort, they should promptly seek medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Under normal circumstances, if water remains trapped in the ear for a full day after swimming, it may be related to excessive water entering the ear canal, blockage due to cerumen (earwax), external otitis (swimmer's ear), otitis media (middle ear infection), or furuncle (boil) in the external auditory canal. Patients are advised to seek appropriate medical treatment as directed by a healthcare provider. Specific causes are analyzed below:

1. Excessive Water in the Ear Canal

If too much water enters the ear during bathing or swimming, it may cause temporary blockage of the ear canal, resulting in persistent sensation of trapped water. This is a common occurrence and can usually be resolved by gently using a cotton swab to absorb the water.

2. Cerumen Impaction in the External Auditory Canal

If residual water is not promptly removed after swimming, the cerumen may absorb the water and swell, leading to ear canal blockage and symptoms such as a feeling of fullness or pain in the ear. Patients may use cotton swabs or ear scoops to carefully remove the impacted cerumen, thereby relieving symptoms.

3. External Otitis (Swimmer’s Ear)

External otitis is often caused by bacterial infection, which leads to inflammation of the ear canal's mucous membrane. Symptoms include ear pain and tinnitus. If left untreated, increased ear discharge may occur, contributing to the sensation of trapped water. Treatment may include prescribed ear drops such as levofloxacin hydrochloride otic solution or ciprofloxacin hydrochloride otic solution.

4. Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)

Persistent water sensation one day after swimming could also result from otitis media. Bacterial infection may cause ear pain, tinnitus, and increased secretions within the ear canal. Patients may be prescribed oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin capsules or cefixime granules, following medical advice.

5. Furuncle (Boil) in the External Auditory Canal

A large furuncle in the ear canal may obstruct the passage, causing a blocked sensation and similar symptoms. Such furuncles typically do not resolve on their own and may require incision and drainage of the abscess. Treatment should also include prescribed medications such as cefixime tablets and ofloxacin otic solution.

In addition, this condition may also be associated with cholesteatoma of the external auditory canal. If patients experience discomfort or persistent symptoms, they should promptly visit a hospital for evaluation and treatment to avoid delays in diagnosis and management.

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