Summer in Arizona means sunshine, pool time, and lots of family fun, but we also see a spike in ear infections at Heavens Urgent Care. Whether your child has been splashing at the pool or enjoying water parks, ear pain can follow and it’s not always easy to tell when a visit to the doctor is in order.
There are two common types of ear infections that we see during the summer: swimmer’s ear and middle ear infections. Knowing the difference can help you decide what to do next and how to prevent future discomfort.
Swimmer’s Ear or Outer Ear Infection
Swimmer’s ear (also called otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by water pooling in the ear after swimming. This moisture is a perfect environment for bacteria or fungi to grow.
Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear:
- Itchy, red, or swollen outer ear
- Ear pain, especially when touching or tugging the ear
- Drainage of clear fluid or pus
- Muffled hearing
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
If left untreated, fluid blockage, swelling and inflammation can lead to conductive hearing loss. Conductive hearing loss makes it harder for sounds to reach your inner ear.
Though hearing loss can be a worry, it typically resolves once the infection is treated. Untreated swimmer’s ear can lead to some serious complications like deep tissue infection, damage to bone and cartilage, or widespread, chronic infection.
Middle Ear Infection
A middle ear infection involves inflammation behind the eardrum and is usually caused by a cold, sinus infection, or allergies, but not water exposure.
Symptoms of a Middle Ear Infection:
- Ear pain (especially when lying down)
- Fever
- Trouble sleeping or irritability
- Fluid draining from the ear (in severe cases)
- Loss of appetite or balance
- Hearing difficulties
This type of infection is most common in children, but teens and adults can experience it too.
Fact: Some ear infections, particularly some middle ear infections, need antibiotic treatment, but many can get better without antibiotics. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider about the best treatment.
How to Tell the Difference
When to See a Doctor
Ear pain should never be ignored, especially in children. If your child is experiencing severe pain, fever, drainage, or symptoms lasting more than 24–48 hours, it’s time to seek medical attention.
At Heavens Urgent Care, we treat both swimmer’s ear and middle ear infections on-site or through virtual care consultations, available anywhere in Arizona.
Our board-certified providers can quickly assess the symptoms and recommend treatment, which may include prescription ear drops (for swimmer’s ear), antibiotics (for middle ear infections), pain relief strategies and a follow-up plan, for persistent symptoms.
3 Prevention Tips for Ear Infections
- You can help reduce your child’s risk of earaches with a few simple precautions:
- For swimmer’s ears make sure to dry ears thoroughly after swimming with a towel or by tilting the head to let water drain. Use over-the-counter alcohol-based ear drops after swimming (ask your provider first), and avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, including cotton swabs.
- For middle ear infections manage allergies and nasal congestion during allergy season and wash hands often to prevent colds.
Serving Apache Junction and Surrounding Communities
Heavens Urgent Care is proud to serve families and seniors in Apache Junction, San Tan Valley, Queen Creek, Gilbert, and Mesa, Arizona. Whether you need a quick diagnosis for your child’s earache or want to schedule a virtual urgent care visit for peace of mind, we’re here to help—without the long wait.
