Peter studied hearing aid fitting at the world headquarters of Starkey Labs. He was able to have hands on training with the company’s founder, Bill Austin. He has also undergone advanced training in the smallest, nearly invisible style hearing aids, and has expanded his education by traveling to Denmark to learn directly from European hearing aid manufacturers. He continues to attend conferences and training seminars to stay current on the rapidly evolving world of hearing aid technology.
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Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is a common condition that occurs when water gets trapped in the ear canal, leading to infection. This painful and often debilitating condition can be prevented with proper care and precautions. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies can help you enjoy swimming and other water activities without the discomfort of swimmer’s ear.
Understanding Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the outer ear canal, which runs from your eardrum to the outside of your head. This condition is usually caused by bacteria found in water. When water remains in the ear after swimming, it creates a moist environment that can facilitate bacterial growth. Swimmer’s ear can cause significant discomfort, including itching, redness, swelling, and pain in the ear. In severe cases, it can lead to hearing loss and other complications, emphasizing the importance of prevention and early treatment.
Keep Your Ears Dry
One of the most effective ways to prevent swimmer’s ear is to keep your ears dry. After swimming, make sure to dry your ears thoroughly. You can tilt your head to each side to help water drain out of your ears. Additionally, use a soft towel to gently dry the outer ear. Some people find it helpful to use a hairdryer on the lowest, coolest setting to dry their ears, holding it several inches away from the ear. Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to dry the ear canal, as this can push water further into the ear and cause injury.
Use Ear Protection
Using ear protection can significantly reduce the risk of developing swimmer’s ear. Wearing earplugs while swimming can help prevent water from entering the ear canal. There are various types of earplugs available, including disposable foam plugs and reusable silicone or custom-fitted plugs. Make sure to choose earplugs that are comfortable and provide a good seal to keep water out. Additionally, wearing a swim cap can help protect your ears by keeping water away from them.
Maintain Good Ear Hygiene
Maintaining good ear hygiene is crucial for preventing infections like swimmer’s ear. Clean your ears regularly but gently, without inserting objects into the ear canal. Use a damp cloth to wipe the outer ear and avoid using cotton swabs or other tools that can cause damage or push earwax deeper into the ear. If you have excessive earwax, consider using over-the-counter ear drops to soften and remove it, or visit a healthcare professional for safe removal.
Use Ear Drops
Using ear drops can help prevent swimmer’s ear, especially if you are prone to ear infections or spend a lot of time in the water. Over-the-counter ear drops designed for swimmer’s ear can help dry out the ear canal and reduce the risk of infection. These drops often contain alcohol or acetic acid, which helps to evaporate trapped water and create an environment that is less favorable for bacterial growth. Use the drops according to the instructions on the package, usually after swimming or bathing.
Recognize the Symptoms
Early recognition of swimmer’s ear symptoms is important for prompt treatment and preventing complications. Common symptoms include itching inside the ear, redness and swelling of the ear canal, pain that worsens when the ear is touched or pulled, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. In more severe cases, you might experience drainage of fluid or pus from the ear, decreased hearing, and fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent the infection from worsening.
When to See a Doctor
If you suspect you have swimmer’s ear, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare provider can perform a hearing health exam and assess the severity of the infection. Treatment typically involves prescription ear drops that contain antibiotics to fight the infection and steroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may need to clean your ear canal to remove debris and allow the medication to work effectively. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully resolved.
In conclusion, swimmer’s ear can be a painful and disruptive condition, but it is largely preventable with proper care and precautions. Keeping your ears dry, using ear protection, maintaining good ear hygiene, and using preventive ear drops can significantly reduce your risk of developing swimmer’s ear. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking prompt medical attention are also crucial for effective treatment and preventing complications. By taking these steps, you can enjoy swimming and other water activities while keeping your ears healthy and infection-free.