Summer is a great time to hit the beach or the pool, but it can also be a season when swimmers are at risk for ear infections.

Whether you’re a competitive swimmer, a recreational swimmer, or simply enjoy floating around in the water, your ears can be exposed to bacteria, fungi, and other germs that can lead to painful and potentially serious infections.

The Causes of Ear Infections from Swimming

There are a few ways that swimming can contribute to ear infections. One of the main causes is the presence of water in the ear canal, which creates a warm, moist environment that is ideal for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive.

Additionally, the type of water you’re swimming in can also be a factor. Chlorine, which is commonly used to sanitize swimming pools, can irritate the delicate skin in your ear canal and make it more susceptible to infection.

Saltwater, on the other hand, can be even more drying and abrasive to your skin, which can also increase your risk of developing an ear infection.

The Symptoms of Ear Infections from Swimming

So how can you tell if you’ve developed an ear infection after swimming? Common symptoms include:.

Pain or discomfort in the ear(s)
Redness and swelling in the ear canal
Itching or irritation
Fluid draining from the ear
Decreased or muffled hearing

How to Protect Your Ears from Infection While Swimming

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to minimize your risk of developing an ear infection while swimming. Consider implementing the following steps:.

Wear earplugs: One of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your ears from infection is to wear earplugs while swimming. These can be purchased at most sporting goods stores and online retailers, and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different ear types. Some earplugs are specifically designed for swimming, and are made of waterproof materials that can help to keep water out of your ears.
Shower after swimming: Another key step to protecting your ears is to rinse them with clean, fresh water after you’re done swimming. This can help to flush out any bacteria or other microorganisms that may have entered your ear canal while you were in the water.
Use a swim cap: While a swim cap may not provide a perfect seal around your ears, it can still help to keep some of the water out of the ear canal and reduce your risk of infection. Additionally, wearing a swim cap can help to protect your hair from chlorine and other chemicals that can damage it.
Dry your ears after swimming: After you’ve rinsed the chlorine or saltwater from your ears, it’s important to dry them thoroughly to prevent moisture from building up in the ear canal. You can use a soft towel or tissue to gently dab the area around your ear, being careful not to insert anything into the ear canal.
Avoid swimming in untreated water: If possible, try to swim in pools or other bodies of water that are treated with chemicals to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. Avoid swimming in lakes, rivers, or other untreated bodies of water, which are more likely to harbor harmful bacteria and parasites.

When to See a Doctor

If you do develop an ear infection after swimming, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Left untreated, an ear infection can lead to serious complications, including permanent hearing loss.

Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to help clear up the infection and alleviate your symptoms. In some cases, you may need to have your ears cleaned out by a medical professional to remove any excess fluid or debris that may be contributing to the infection.

Conclusion

Swimming is a fun and refreshing way to stay active in the summer, but it’s important to take steps to protect your ears from infection.

By wearing earplugs, rinsing your ears with clean water, using a swim cap, and drying your ears thoroughly after swimming, you can reduce your risk of developing painful and potentially serious ear infections.