Do you go swimming regularly and experience ear pain or an oppressive feeling afterwards? Then chances are you are dealing with a swimmer's ear. This common ear infection originates in the ear canal and can be quite annoying. In this article you will read what a swimmer's ear exactly what it is, how to recognize the symptoms, what to do in case of a ear blocked after swimming and how to prevent problems in the future. Want to prevent symptoms? Then custom-made swim plugs can help protect your ears while swimming.
What is a swimmer's ear?
A swimmer's ear is an inflammation of the skin in the ear canal. The medical name is otitis externa. This condition usually occurs when fluid remains in the ear, giving bacteria a chance to multiply. Because this often happens after swimming, this ear infection is popularly called a swimmer's ear mentioned.
Inflammation is located on the outside of the ear and can range from mild to very painful. Timely intervention prevents worsening of symptoms.
Causes of a swimmer's ear
The most common cause of a swimmer's ear is water that remains in the ear canal after swimming. This explains why people often suffer from a blocked ear after swimming.
Other causes include:
- Damage to the skin in the ear canal
- Excessive or improper ear cleaning
- Use of objects in the ear, such as cotton swabs
- Irritation from soap, shampoo or other products
The ear canal is vulnerable. Once the protective layer of skin is damaged, bacteria can easily cause an infection.
Complaints and symptoms
A swimmer's ear You can recognize it by several signs. Many people first notice a nagging or stinging sensation. Later, this may worsen.
Common complaints include:
- Ear pain, especially when touched or chewed
- Itching or irritation in the ear
- Secretion from the ear
- Decreased hearing
- The feeling of a ear blocked after swimming
Swelling and moisture can temporarily reduce hearing. This makes swimming with a blocked ear extra unpleasant and is strongly discouraged.
What to do in case of a swimmer's ear?
Do you have complaints that indicate a swimmer's ear, then don't wait too long. A doctor or audiologist can determine if there is an infection. In most cases, the swimmer's ear treated with medicated ear drops that fight infection and reduce swelling.
During treatment, it is important to:
- Keeping the ear as dry as possible
- Do not apply pressure or irritation to the ear
- No objects to insert into the ear
Serious symptoms may require additional medical treatment.
How to prevent a swimmer's ear?
Prevention is always better than cure. With a few simple measures, you can reduce the risk of a swimmer's ear significantly:
- Make sure your ears dry properly after contact with water
- Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture
- Don't clean your ears with objects
- Be careful with cosmetic products around the ear
With recurring complaints, it may be wise to seek advice on appropriate hearing protection. On the page hearing protection Find more information on solutions that help to better protect your ear canal.
When to seek professional advice?
Do the symptoms keep coming back or do you doubt the cause of your ear problems? Then professional advice is important. At Audinc you can get expert guidance and personal advice.
Feel free to take contact Audinc For questions about ear problems, prevention or appropriate solutions.
