Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal. It is caused by the attack of some specific bacteria and fungus, in a few cases. It is mainly observed among people who have a prolonged as well as frequent exposure to water.

Keeping the ear region of the body submerged or in direct contact with the water washes away the essential oil and waxy agent that lines the ear canal and acts as a protective barrier. This is especially observed among the swimmers who spend hours in the pool. It is noticed that even after the swimmer leaves the pool, drops of water remain inside the ear canal. This develops a warm and moist environment most apt for the breeding of harmful micro-organisms like bacteria and fungus.
 
One of the earliest symptoms of this infection is the prevalence of mild-to-moderate pain in the external as well as internal regions of the ear. This pain is most of the times accompanied by the flow of discharge from the ear. In case, the discharge is in abundance, chances are likely that the person undergoes hearing loss on a temporary basis. Further, the swelling in the insides of the ear may reduce the hearing abilities of the person for as long as the infection persists.