Swimmer’s Ear & Surf Ear in Bali: Home Treatment & When to Call
With Bali’s world-class waves and warm waters, ear infections like “swimmer’s ear” or “surf ear” are common among locals and visitors. Understanding how to prevent, recognize, and manage these conditions is essential, especially in a tropical environment where frequent swimming, surfing, or water exposure is part of daily life.
What is Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)?
Swimmer’s ear, medically known as otitis externa, is an infection or inflammation of the ear canal. It’s often caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming or surfing, creating a moist environment where bacteria and fungi thrive. “Surf ear” is a local term often used interchangeably, but can also refer to chronic ear problems related to repeated water and wind exposure.
Common Causes
• Trapped water in the ear canal
• Minor skin abrasions from aggressive cleaning or using earbuds
• Exposure to bacteria in pools, oceans, or rivers
• Allergic reactions (earplugs, earrings, hair products)
Who is at Risk?
• Frequent swimmers and surfers
• Children (narrower ear canals)
• People with eczema or allergies
Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear & Surf Ear
• Itching inside the ear canal
• Ear pain, especially when touching or pulling the earlobe
• Redness and swelling of the outer ear
• Watery, yellow, or pus-like discharge
• Fullness or temporary hearing loss
If you notice severe pain, fever, hearing loss, or spreading redness around the ear, seek immediate medical attention through a doctor-on-call service.
Home Treatment: What You Can Do
Most mild cases can be managed at home, especially in the early stages. However, close monitoring is important to prevent complications.
Step 1: Dry the Ear Gently
• After swimming or showering, tilt your head to help water drain out.
• Use a soft towel to dry the ear; avoid inserting cotton buds or objects into the canal.
• Consider a hairdryer on a cool setting, held at least 30 cm away, to gently dry the ear canal.
Step 2: Relieve Discomfort
• Apply a warm compress to the outside of the ear to reduce pain.
• Over-the-counter painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen) may help.
Step 3: Avoid Further Irritation
• Do not swim until symptoms resolve.
• Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, including cotton swabs and earplugs.
Step 4: Try Preventive Drops (If No Perforation)
• Alcohol-based ear drops (acetic acid or isopropyl alcohol) can help dry the canal and prevent infection. These are only safe if you do not have a ruptured eardrum or ear tubes.
• Never use home remedies if you are unsure about the safety of your ear canal.
Note:
If you are experiencing Bali Belly or other travel-related illnesses alongside ear symptoms, consider our hydration or relief IV packages for additional support.
When to Call a Doctor
Swimmer’s ear and surf ear often resolve with simple care, but sometimes professional intervention is necessary.
Contact a Healthcare Provider If:
• Severe pain, fever, or spreading redness develops
• Discharge is foul-smelling or persists for more than 2-3 days
• Hearing loss or ringing in the ear occurs
• You have diabetes, a weakened immune system, or a history of ear surgery
• Home treatment fails after 48 hours
Trishnanda Care Centre offers 24/7 mobile reach across Bali, with English-speaking doctors and nurses available for urgent care, prescription medications, and in-villa assessments. If you’re unable to visit a clinic, use our doctor-on-call service for quick, effective treatment at your location.
Prevention Tips for Bali’s Water Enthusiasts
Staying healthy in Bali’s tropical climate means taking a proactive approach, especially if you spend a lot of time in the ocean or pool.
How to Reduce Your Risk
• Wear swim caps or earplugs designed for water sports (make sure they fit properly and are clean)
• Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or surfing
• Limit use of cotton swabs or objects in the ear
• Rinse ears with clean, fresh water after ocean swims
• Consider preventive ear drops (but only if your eardrums are intact)
Special Considerations for Surfers
• Repeated exposure to cold water and wind can lead to “exostosis” (surfer’s ear), a bony growth in the ear canal.
• Use earplugs in cold or windy conditions to reduce risk.
• See a doctor if you notice chronic water trapping or repeated infections.
Medical Care and Services in Bali
Prompt, professional care can prevent complications such as chronic infections or hearing loss. Trishnanda Care Centre provides:
• 24/7 doctor-on-call and nurse visits anywhere in Bali
• Mobile IV therapy for dehydration, immunity, and recovery support
• In-villa lab tests (including ear swabs if needed)
• Travel vaccinations and comprehensive health checks
• All services available with free island-wide delivery of medications and supplies
If you need an urgent assessment or prescription medication, our team can reach you wherever you are in Bali. For ongoing issues, preventive care, or additional concerns (such as food intolerance or jetlag), explore our hydration and immunity IV therapy options.
How Trishnanda Care Centre Can Help
• English-speaking staff available 24/7 for phone, WhatsApp, and in-person support
• Convenient mobile clinic services—no need to leave your villa or hotel
• Rapid in-villa testing, including for dengue, STDs, and more (see our Tests page)
• On-demand IV therapies for pain relief, hydration, and recovery
• Free medication delivery, wherever you are on the island
Take Action & Stay Safe
Swimmer’s ear and surf ear are common but manageable with early intervention and proper care. If you’re unsure about your symptoms, don’t wait—Trishnanda Care Centre is here to support you 24/7 with expert mobile healthcare.
For rapid, English-speaking assistance, contact us via WhatsApp:
Start a WhatsApp chat now.
This content is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised diagnosis and treatment.