Swimmer’s Ear Treatment
Online in Florida
Get treatment for otitis externa (outer ear infection) from a licensed Florida provider. No video call, no waiting room — starting at $79.
Florida residents & visitors only
Cases/Year in US
Ciprodex Otic
Provider Response
Typical Recovery
What is swimmer’s ear?
Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal — the passage that runs from the outside of your ear to the eardrum. It commonly occurs when water stays in the ear canal after swimming, creating a moist environment where bacteria can grow. However, it can also develop from damage to the ear canal lining caused by cotton swabs, fingers, or other objects.
Otitis externa affects roughly 2.4 million people each year in the United States. While uncomfortable, swimmer’s ear is highly treatable with prescription ear drops that fight infection and reduce inflammation. Most cases improve significantly within 24–48 hours of starting treatment and fully resolve within 7–10 days.
Common signs and symptoms
- Ear pain that worsens when pulling on the outer ear
- Itching inside the ear canal
- Drainage or discharge from the ear
- Muffled hearing or feeling of blockage
- Redness and swelling of the outer ear
- Tenderness when touching the ear or jawbone area
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, early treatment with antibiotic ear drops can relieve pain quickly and prevent the infection from worsening.
Relief for your ear, without the wait
Complete a quick health questionnaire about your ear symptoms and history — takes about 5 minutes
A licensed Florida provider reviews your case within 24–48 hours and determines the appropriate treatment
If appropriate, prescription ear drops are sent directly to your pharmacy
Follow up if symptoms persist — message your provider anytime during your treatment
Affordable ear infection medication
We prescribe FDA-approved generics at a fraction of brand-name prices via Cost Plus Drugs.
| Medication | Used For | Cost Plus Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ciprofloxacin/Hydrocortisone otic | Outer ear infection | $15.00/course |
| Ofloxacin otic | Outer ear infection | $10.00/course |
Members save more
With a $69/mo membership, your message visit is included — so you only pay for the medication. Become a member →
Your prescription, your pharmacy. We send prescriptions to any pharmacy you choose — CVS, Walgreens, your local pharmacy, or home delivery through Cost Plus Drugs. The prices above reflect Cost Plus Drugs pricing.
Not responding to treatment?
If your swimmer’s ear is refractory or keeps coming back, your provider may order an ear canal culture to identify the specific organism (bacterial vs. fungal). Lab work is ordered through Quest Diagnostics — walk in at any Florida location.
Ear Culture
From $40
+ $49 clinician interpretation
Comprehensive Wellness
$140
10 tests for overall health
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about swimmer’s ear treatment at Goza Health.
How do I know if I have swimmer’s ear vs. a middle ear infection?
Swimmer’s ear (outer) causes pain when you pull on your earlobe or press on the ear. Middle ear infections cause deep pain, pressure, and sometimes muffled hearing without external tenderness.
How fast will I get my prescription?
Most prescriptions are sent within 24-48 hours of completing your visit.
Do I need a video call?
No. Describe your symptoms in a message visit and a licensed provider prescribes treatment within 24-48 hours.
How much does a swimmer’s ear visit cost?
A single message visit costs $79. Members ($69/mo) get message visits included, so you only pay for medication.
How long does swimmer’s ear take to heal?
With prescription ear drops, most patients see improvement within 2-3 days and full resolution within 7-10 days.
How can I prevent swimmer’s ear?
Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering. Over-the-counter ear-drying drops can help. Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal.
Can I swim while being treated?
It’s best to keep your ears dry during treatment. Your provider may recommend waiting until symptoms fully resolve before returning to water activities.
Can I use over-the-counter ear drops for swimmer’s ear?
OTC drops may help with mild cases, but prescription antibiotic ear drops are needed for confirmed bacterial infections. A Goza provider can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe the right treatment if needed.
Why does my ear feel blocked or muffled?
Swelling in the ear canal from infection can narrow the passage and trap fluid, causing a feeling of fullness or muffled hearing. This typically improves as the infection clears with treatment.
Is swimmer’s ear the same as an ear infection?
Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) affects the outer ear canal, while a middle ear infection (otitis media) occurs behind the eardrum. They have different causes and require different treatments. Your provider can help determine which type you have.
Can I use earbuds or hearing aids during treatment?
It’s best to avoid inserting anything into the ear canal during treatment, including earbuds, hearing aids, and earplugs. This allows the ear drops to work effectively and prevents further irritation.