Stepping out of the pool only to find one ear feeling blocked can be uncomfortable, especially when your hearing seems muffled. water trapped in the outer ear canal can cause temporary discomfort and, in some cases, lead to irritation or an infection While swimming is generally safe for your ears.
In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr Punam Kumari, head audiologist at Centre for Hearing, explains, “Swimmer’s ear, medically known as otitis externa, is inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal – the passage that runs from the outside of the ear to the eardrum. Earwax helps protect the canal by providing a natural barrier against moisture and germs. Repeated or prolonged exposure to water can soften the skin lining the ear canal and disturb its natural protective barrier. This can create conditions in which bacteria, and sometimes fungi, can grow. Moisture is not the only risk factor: scratching the canal, inserting cotton buds, or using objects to remove earwax can also increase the risk. “Many people think that swimmer’s ear only affects swimmers, but that is not the case. Anyone whose ears remain damp for long periods may be at risk. Humid weather, long showers and heavy sweating can also contribute. Keeping the outer ear dry and avoiding irritation of the ear canal are helpful steps,” highlights the audiologist. Hearing often improves once the underlying problem is treated, but persistent hearing changes should not be ignored. Severe or complicated infections can cause more significant problems, so seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve. Swimmer’s ear affects the outer ear canal. A middle-ear infection occurs behind the eardrum and commonly develops in association with a cold or other upper respiratory infection, particularly in children. Water in a swimming pool does not usually cause a middle-ear infection when the eardrum is intact.
The following symptoms may develop over a day or several days: The audiologist explains, “Muffled hearing can occur when swelling or discharge narrows the ear canal and interferes with sound reaching the eardrum, according to Dr Kumari.
“The right advice depends on the person’s ear condition and the procedure or treatment they have had. Dr Kumari recommends arranging for an ear examination if you have persistent pain, discharge, swelling or hearing that remains muffled after swimming. She emphasises, “Seek prompt medical attention for severe pain, fever, spreading redness or swelling, or a sudden change in hearing. A clinician can examine the ear and decide whether treatment, such as prescription ear drops, is needed. She also cautions against using leftover ear medication or home remedies without professional advice, especially since some products may be unsuitable, particularly if the eardrum is perforated or its status is unknown. The audiologist recommends paying particular attention to children, who may not be able to describe their symptoms clearly. Ear tugging, unusual irritability, or not responding to sounds as usual can be signs that they need assessment. “We take care of our eyes, teeth and heart without hesitation, but we can overlook changes in our hearing. A blocked feeling after swimming may settle on its own, but if it persists, recurs or is accompanied by pain or discharge, it should be evaluated. Hearing helps us stay connected to the people around us. A few simple precautions can help protect the ears and allow swimming to remain an enjoyable activity. If symptoms develop, getting the right advice early is the best approach,” concludes Dr Kumari. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. Dr Punam Kumari is Head Audiologist at Centre for Hearing, the flagship retail brand of Anand Hearing Care Pvt. Ltd. A former Senior Audiologist at Amplifon India, she has extensive experience in evidence-based hearing care and clinical leadership.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, she specialises in hearing diagnostics, hearing aid fitting and aural rehabilitation.
“Anyone with a perforated eardrum, a history of ear surgery or ear tubes should ask their doctor what water precautions are appropriate before swimming,” Dr Kumari advises.
