In this week’s Keeping Kids Healthy column by UTMB Drs. Sally Robinson and Keith Bly: Swimming is a great way for kids to stay active, especially during the summer months. However, the combination of heat, humidity and water can lead to an ear condition called acute otitis external, more commonly known as swimmer’s ear. The infection often is caused by bacteria being carried into the outer ear canal. Symptoms of swimmer’s ear include redness, swelling, itching, drainage of pus and pain.