Summer Ear Infections Rise in Children: Doctor's Advice on Prevention

Summer brings joy and outdoor activities, but it also increases the risk of external ear infections, particularly for children. Dr. Alexandra Schnaider, a pediatric ENT specialist at MedLife, warns that even after swimming or playing outside, drying the ear canal is crucial to prevent "swimmer's ear."

External otitis, or swimmer's ear, is an inflammation of the ear canal. Unlike middle ear infections, which are common after respiratory viruses and prevalent in spring and fall, external otitis is typically caused by bacteria and fungi. These pathogens find entry points when the ear's natural protective mechanisms are compromised by increased moisture, altered pH levels, and minor injuries.

Studies show that 75-90% of all external ear infections occur in the summer. Persistent moisture from sweat and swimming creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Patients often experience severe pain, especially when moving the ear, along with foul-smelling discharge, a feeling of fullness, itching, and redness around the ear canal.

Doctors diagnose these infections through otoscopy or ear endoscopy. Treatment is not always necessary, as many middle ear infections are viral and resolve with anti-inflammatory medication and standard cold remedies. However, external ear infections require specific management to address the bacterial or fungal cause.