What is Swimmer's Ear?
July 16, 2022
Summertime will be here before you know it. Pretty soon everyone will be in bathing suits and swimming shorts gathered at beaches and pools with friends and family soaking in the sun. And hot weather calls for a dip in cool water.
Hanging out in the water or swimming can lead to swimmer's ear also known as otitis externa, an infection caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming.
A simple solution for a long swim or quick dip is earplugs for swimming. There are several on the market but here are a few of the main types of earplugs ideal for swimming:
- Silicone Putty Earplugs are typically molded and formed to the ear, They do not go inside the ear but instead are pressed and formed along the opening of the ear.
- Flanged Silicone Earplugs are pre-formed earplugs which are inserted into the ear and are easy to clean.
- Custom Earplugs are custom-fit to your specific ear and shape for your comfort. They can be expensive and typically measured by an audiologists for best fit.
- Foam Earplugs can be an inexpensive option but are not the greatest choice for protection in water.
Opting for earplugs can avoid a painful infection. The infection extends from the outer ear canal that runs from the eardrum to the outside of the head. The infection can create a moist environment that helps bacteria or fungi grow. A typical symptom is redness in the outer ear accompanied by warmth and pain.
Other ways to reduce the risk of swimmer's ear:
Keep your ears as dry as possible; use a bathing cap, ear plugs or custom-fitted swim molds when swimming.
Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or showering; use a towel to dry your ears well and tilt your head to hold each ear facing down to allow water to drain out.
Do not put objects in the ear canal (including cotton-tip swabs, pencils, paperclips, or fingers) or attempt to remove ear wax (ear wax protects from infections).