Swimmer's Ear and Ear Infection Care in Brazil
Rio Med Care provides consultations in English, by secure video, throughout Brazil. This page is general information and does not replace an individual medical evaluation.
Frequent time in the ocean, hotel pools and humid air make ear canal infections, often called swimmer's ear, a common problem for visitors to Brazil. Trapped moisture can irritate the ear canal and allow an infection to develop, sometimes with pain that worsens quickly.
Middle ear infections, often following a cold, flight or sinus congestion, are a different problem. An online consultation in English can assess the symptoms and guide the next step, although looking inside the ear with an otoscope may require an in-person examination.
Common symptoms
- Ear pain that worsens when touching or pulling the outer ear
- Itching or a feeling of fullness inside the ear canal
- Clear, yellowish or foul-smelling discharge
- Temporary muffled hearing
- Redness or swelling of the ear canal or outer ear
- Ear pain or pressure after a cold or flight
When to seek medical care urgently
- Fever with severe ear pain, especially in a child
- Swelling, redness or pain behind or around the ear
- Sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness or persistent ringing
- Facial weakness or drooping
- Severe pain, rapidly worsening symptoms or discharge with blood
In an emergency in Brazil, call 192 (SAMU) or go to the nearest emergency department. Telemedicine is not appropriate for severe or rapidly evolving conditions.
What the consultation includes
- Review of recent swimming, flights, colds and how the pain or discharge developed.
- Visual assessment by video and photographs when useful, with clear advice when an otoscope examination is needed.
- Practical guidance on keeping the ear dry and reducing discomfort safely.
- Treatment when clinically indicated after the evaluation, or referral for an in-person or ENT assessment when the ear canal or eardrum must be examined directly.
Prescriptions and medical certificates are issued only when clinically indicated after a live medical evaluation. Rio Med Care does not sell or deliver medications.
Frequently asked questions
Can an ear infection be assessed online?
A detailed history and external examination by video can guide the initial assessment, but they do not replace an otoscope examination. The physician will tell you clearly if an in-person visit is needed.
How can I reduce the risk after swimming?
Dry the outer ears gently, tilt your head to let water drain and avoid putting cotton swabs or other objects inside the ear canal.
Can I keep swimming while my ear heals?
It is usually best to keep the ear dry until symptoms have resolved. Specific advice depends on the cause and severity found during the evaluation.
Are online consultations compliant with Brazilian medical rules?
Yes. Online consultations are conducted in compliance with CFM Resolution nº 2.314/2022. In-person care is recommended whenever a physical examination is clinically necessary.
Book a consultation in English
Online consultation US$ 50 (available throughout Brazil). Appointments daily, 07:00–22:00 BRT.