How I Manage External Otitis in Competitive Swimmers.

In brief: External otitis is the most common ear problem of competitive swimmers and divers. Its main cause is bacteria, but it can also be caused by a fungus (otomycosis) or chronic irritation (neurodermatitis). Although benign and self-limiting, external otitis can jeopardize a swimmer's training program and career if it is ignored. Prevention requires adherence to strict aural hygiene, eg, using alcohol eardrops and not inserting cotton swabs or other instruments into the ear.