Yes, swimmer’s ear can be quite painful. The infection causes inflammation and swelling in the outer ear canal, which often results in sharp or throbbing pain. This pain may worsen when you touch or pull on your ear, as well as when you open your mouth or jaw, as the infection affects the sensitive skin in your ear canal. Other symptoms, such as itching, discomfort, and a feeling of fullness, can also accompany the pain.
If left untreated, the pain from swimmer's ear can intensify, and in some cases, the infection can spread, leading to more severe discomfort. Fortunately, most cases of swimmer’s ear can be managed with ear drops and other treatments that help relieve the pain and reduce inflammation.
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