Swimmer’s Ear vs. Regular Earaches: When to Visit Urgent Care in Greeley
- Jul 28, 2025
- 2 min read
Not all ear pain is the same. If you've been spending time at the pool, lake, or even the shower, and suddenly develop a sore, itchy ear—swimmer’s ear might be the culprit. This type of outer ear infection can feel very different from the more familiar middle ear infections (often seen with colds or sinus infections).
At Nadora Urgent Care in Greeley, we help patients determine the cause of their ear discomfort so they can get back to their summer without the irritation and pain.
What Is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, typically caused by water that remains in the ear after swimming. That moisture creates the perfect environment for bacteria or fungus to grow.
Signs of swimmer’s ear may include:
Redness or swelling around the outer ear
Itching deep in the ear canal
Pain that gets worse when the ear is tugged or moved
Drainage of clear or yellowish fluid
A feeling of fullness or muffled hearing
In contrast, middle ear infections (more common in young children) usually come with fever, congestion, and pain deeper inside the ear—often during or after a cold.
When to Visit Urgent Care in Greeley
If you or your child is dealing with ear pain that isn’t going away, it’s best to be evaluated. At urgent care in Greeley, we’ll perform a quick ear exam using an otoscope to check for inflammation, fluid, or infection.
Treatment for swimmer’s ear may include:
Antibiotic or antifungal ear drops
Pain relief recommendations
Guidance on how to keep the ear dry during healing
Untreated swimmer’s ear can worsen quickly, so early care is best.
Stay Comfortable and Protected
Don’t let a little water ruin your summer. Visit Nadora Urgent Care in Greeley at 1624 17th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80524. Walk-ins welcome, or call 970-212-5150 to speak with our team.
