Outdoor activities such as swimming, water sports, hiking and camping are a great way to stay active and enjoy nature. However, these activities also put us at risk of getting outdoor ear infections.

In this article, we will discuss five common outdoor ear infections and their risks.

1. Swimmer’s Ear

Dipping into the pool on a hot summer day is a great way to cool off and have fun. But the water in the pool can cause swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa.

Swimmer’s ear is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection that affects the outer ear canal.

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear include itching, swelling, redness, and pain. The risk of getting swimmer’s ear increases if you have a scratch or irritation in your ear canal, or if you spend a lot of time in the water.

To prevent swimmer’s ear, try to keep your ears dry by using earplugs or a swim cap, and avoid putting foreign objects in your ears.

2. Surfer’s Ear

Surfing is an exciting watersport, and it’s no surprise that it’s becoming more popular than ever.

However, surfing for extended periods in cold water can cause surfer’s ear, which is a condition where bony growths form inside the ear canal. Surfer’s ear, also known as exostosis, can cause hearing loss and ear infections.

Symptoms of surfer’s ear include muffled hearing, frequent ear infections, and ear pain. The risk of developing surfer’s ear increases if you surf in cold water without ear protection.

To prevent surfer’s ear, wear earplugs or a hooded wetsuit to keep your ears warm and dry.

3. Hiker’s Ear

Hiking is a great way to explore the nature and get exercise. However, being outdoors for an extended period exposes your ear to the wind, dust and other irritants, which can lead to hiker’s ear.

Hiker’s ear, also known as otitis media, is an infection of the middle ear caused by bacteria or viruses.

Symptoms of hiker’s ear include ear pain, fever, and fluid draining from the ear. The risk of developing hiker’s ear increases if you hike in dusty or windy conditions without ear protection.

To prevent hiker’s ear, wear earplugs or a headband to keep your ears covered and clean your ears regularly after hiking to remove any dirt or debris.

4. Barotrauma

Scuba diving is an exciting leisure activity that enables you to explore the underwater world. But scuba diving can cause barotrauma, which is a condition caused by rapid pressure changes during descent or ascent.

Barotrauma can affect your ears, sinuses, and lungs.

Symptoms of barotrauma include ear pain, difficulty hearing, and dizziness. The risk of developing barotrauma increases if you are scuba diving with sinus or ear infections.

To prevent barotrauma, avoid diving with sinus or ear infections, equalize your ears frequently during dives, and ascend slowly.

5. Allergic Reactions

Spending time outdoors can be problematic if you are allergic to pollen, dust or other irritants. Allergic reactions in the ear can cause itching, swelling and discharge.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction in the ear include itching, swelling, and discharge. The risk of developing an allergic reaction in the ear increases if you are exposed to allergens like pollen, dust and pet dander.

To prevent allergic reactions, avoid exposure to allergens that trigger a reaction and take antihistamines or use steroid ear drops to alleviate symptoms.

Conclusively

In conclusion, outdoor activities can pose a risk to your ears, and avoiding them is not the solution. However, identifying the risks and taking preventive measures can reduce your chances of developing outdoor ear infections.

If you experience any symptoms of an ear infection, contact your doctor or audiologist to diagnose and treat the condition properly.