What to Know About Ear Infections in Kids During the Summer

Summer is full of pool days, beach vacations, water parks, and endless outdoor fun. While many parents associate ear infections with cold and flu season, summer brings its own set of ear concerns. Increased time spent swimming can raise the risk of swimmer’s ear, while middle ear infections can still occur throughout the season.

If your child is complaining of ear pain after a day of swimming, it’s important to understand what might be causing it—and when it’s time to seek medical care 

Why Are Ear Problems More Common During Summer?

Not all ear infections are the same. During the summer, children are more likely to develop swimmer’s ear (otitis externa), which differs from the middle ear infections that are often associated with respiratory illnesses during the colder months.

Swimmer’s Ear (Outer Ear Infection) 

Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the ear canal. It often develops when water becomes trapped inside the ear after swimming, creating a moist environment where bacteria can grow. 

Children are more likely to develop swimmer’s ear if they: 

Middle Ear Infections 

Middle ear infections (otitis media) occur behind the eardrum and are often linked to respiratory infections, allergies, or congestion. While they’re more common during colder months, they can still occur in the summer, especially if seasonal allergies cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the ears. 

Signs of Swimmer’s Ear 

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear may include: 

Symptoms often begin gradually but can become more uncomfortable over several days. 

Signs of a Middle Ear Infection 

Middle ear infections may cause: 

Because the symptoms can overlap, it isn’t always easy for parents to tell which type of ear infection their child has. 

When Should Parents Seek Medical Care? 

It’s a good idea to have your child evaluated if they have: 

Prompt evaluation can help identify the cause of your child’s symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment.

Tips to Help Prevent Summer Ear Issues 

While not every ear infection can be prevented, a few simple habits can lower your child’s risk: 

Dry Ears Thoroughly After Swimming 

Encourage children to gently dry their ears with a towel after swimming. Tilting the head from side to side can also help remove trapped water. 

Avoid Putting Objects in the Ear 

Cotton swabs, fingernails, and other objects can irritate or damage the ear canal and may increase the risk of swimmer’s ear. 

Take Breaks From the Water 

Children who spend several hours swimming every day may benefit from occasional breaks to allow their ears to dry completely. 

Manage Seasonal Allergies 

If your child experiences seasonal allergies, talk with their pediatrician about ways to manage congestion and inflammation that may contribute to middle ear problems.

The Bottom Line 

Ear pain can quickly put a damper on summer fun. While swimmer’s ear is more common during the summer because of increased water exposure, middle ear infections can occur year-round. Knowing the difference between these conditions—and recognizing when it’s time to seek medical care—can help your child get the right treatment and return to enjoying their favorite summer activities.

If your child develops persistent ear pain, drainage, fever, hearing changes, or worsening symptoms, a healthcare provider can evaluate the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.