Indicators That Your Child Could Have Swimmer's Ear

Swimming can be a fun activity for your children, whether it's in a neighbor's backyard swimming pool, at your local aquatic center, or at a beach located a short drive from your home. After most swim sessions, your children will be excitedly talking about the experience and perhaps asking when they can go again. There can be times, however, in which one of your children shows signs of an ear canal infection known as swimmer's ear. This condition isn't overly serious, but it's a good idea to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Here are some indicators that may lead you to believe your child has swimmer's ear.

Complaints Of Itchiness

You might begin to suspect that one of your children could have swimmer's ear if they start to complain about itchiness in one of their ears. This is a common symptom of this ear condition and will vary in severity based on the degree of infection. Some children may note that their ear feels moderately itchy, while others could complain vocally about a serious itch. Certain children tend to be quiet about health complaints, so you should note whether one of your kids is frequently scratching their ear. If so, you can ask them if it's unusually itchy.

Description Of Being "Full"

Some children will also state that their ear feels full. While a younger child might have trouble articulating this feeling, it will be fairly easy for an older child to share. A child might not use the term "full," but they may explain that it feels as though there's something in their ear. In most cases, there won't actually be a foreign body in the ear, but the infection is likely causing swelling that generates the feeling of fullness.

Discharge

The above symptoms are common in many moderate cases of swimmer's ear, but additional symptoms may present themselves if the infection is particularly serious. For example, you might notice discharge in the opening of the ear. The discharge can vary in color; it may be yellowish or fairly clear, for example. While you might see it when it's wet, it's also possible for it to try and leave a crusty texture in the ear. You might notice this, or your child might bring it to your attention. If you've seen one or more signs that your child could have swimmer's ear, make an appointment at a local pediatric care clinic.

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