Preventing Swimmer’s Ear This Summer

Summer is underway, and many of us enjoy water activities like swimming and water sports. While these activities provide a welcome respite from the heat, they also increase the risk of developing swimmer’s ear and other summer ear infections.

Swimmer’s ear, known medically as otitis externa, is a painful infection of the ear canal caused by bacteria or fungi. Fortunately, there are several effective preventative measures you can take to safeguard against swimmer’s ear and other common summer ear infections.

Understanding Swimmer’s Ear and Summer Ear Infections

Swimmer’s ear is an infection that commonly occurs when water gets trapped in the ear canal, providing a breeding ground for bacteria or fungi. Other summer ear infections, such as middle ear infections (otitis media) and external auditory canal infections, are also more prevalent during the warmer months due to increased exposure to water and humidity.

Common symptoms of swimmer’s ear and summer ear infections include:

• Persistent itching in the ear canal
• Pain or discomfort, especially when touching or pulling on the ear
• A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
• Redness and swelling around the ear
• Drainage of fluid or pus from the ear
• Reduced or muffled hearing
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe complications and prolonged discomfort. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Prevention Strategies

Here are some tips for preventing swimmer’s ear during the hot summer months:

1. Keep your ears dry: After swimming or participating in water activities, make sure to thoroughly dry your ears. Tilt your head to each side and gently tug on your earlobe to help the water drain out. Use a towel to dry the external part of your ears, and if necessary, use a gentle, low-heat hairdryer on the lowest setting to ensure complete drying.
2. Avoid inserting objects into your ears: It may be tempting to use cotton swabs or other objects to dry your ears, but this can actually push debris and moisture further into the ear canal and increase the risk of infection. If you feel excessive wax buildup, consult a healthcare professional for safe removal.
3. Use earplugs or a swimming cap: When swimming, especially in pools or other bodies of water with potentially contaminated water, use earplugs or a swimming cap to prevent water from entering your ear canal. Make sure to use high-quality, waterproof earplugs that fit properly.
4. Avoid direct contact with contaminated water: Be careful about swimming in bodies of water that may have high bacterial or fungal content, such as lakes or untreated pools. Choose swimming locations that are well-maintained and regularly treated with appropriate disinfectants.
5. Dry ears after exposure to excessive moisture: In addition to swimming, excessive moisture from sweat or humid environments can contribute to the development of ear infections. After intense physical activity or spending time in a humid environment, take the time to dry your ears thoroughly.
6. Reduce headphone or earbud Use: Using headphones or earbuds for extended periods can create a warm, moist environment conducive to the growth of bacteria or fungi. Give your ears regular breaks and keep your headphones clean to reduce the risk of infection.
7. Seek prompt medical attention: If you experience symptoms of swimmer’s ear or any other ear infection, seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the infection from getting worse and help alleviate symptoms more quickly.
8. Maintain good ear hygiene: Clean the external part of your ears gently using a washcloth or mild cleanser. Avoid aggressive cleaning or using excessive force, as this can irritate the sensitive skin and increase the risk of infection.

Protecting Your Ears for a Healthy Summer

Preventing swimmer’s ear and other summer ear infections can help you have an enjoyable summer, in and out of the water. Incorporate preventative strategies into your summer routine to reduce the risk of developing painful and inconvenient ear infections.

If you think you have an ear infection, visit your doctor to explore treatment options. If you notice signs of hearing loss or tinnitus, visit us for a hearing test, and find out how you can enjoy a summer of clear hearing.