Otitis externa (swimmer's ear): an infection of the outer ear canal, causing pain, itching, redness, and swelling in the outer ear, as well as discharge and difficulty hearing.

External otitis is often caused by water that remains in the ear after swimming or showering, providing a moist environment for bacteria to grow. Other factors that can increase the risk of developing external otitis include skin irritation, eczema, cuts or abrasions in the outer ear canal, and frequent cleaning of the ears with cotton swabs or other objects.

Treatment for external otitis typically involves antibiotics, either topical or oral, to clear the infection and relieve symptoms.

To reduce the risk of developing external otitis, it is important to keep the ears dry, especially after swimming or showering, and to avoid cleaning the ears with objects that can irritate the skin or push the wax further in.

For further reading please check the link:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ear-infections/