How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear: Pool and Sea Tips
A few simple habits keep water out of your ears and help you enjoy the pool and the sea without painful infections.
If you swim every day on holiday, a bit of prevention goes a long way. Swimmer’s ear is much easier to avoid than to treat.
Dry Your Ears Properly
After swimming, tilt your head to each side and gently pull the earlobe to let water run out. Dry the outer ear with a clean towel. A hairdryer on the lowest, coolest setting held at arm’s length can help.
Use Ear Protection
Well-fitting earplugs or a swim cap help if you are prone to infections, if you swim for long periods, or if you have had swimmer’s ear before. Buy them before you travel or from a pharmacy at your destination.
Be Careful with Cotton Buds
Cotton buds and fingers push wax deeper and scratch the skin of the ear canal, which makes infection more likely. Wax protects the ear, so leave it alone unless it is blocked.
Choose Your Water
Poorly maintained pools and warm, stagnant water carry more bacteria. Choose pools that look clean and are well maintained, and be careful with shallow, warm lagoons after heavy rain.
If You Have a History of Ear Problems
If you have had swimmer’s ear before, or have grommets or a perforated eardrum, ask a doctor whether swimming is safe and which drops or plugs are suitable. If you get itching or pain, stop swimming and get advice early, because treatment started early is quicker and simpler.
References
- NHS. Ear infections
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