Ear tubes, also known as tympanostomy tubes or grommets, are a common solution for children experiencing recurrent ear infections or persistent fluid behind the eardrum. Many parents wonder about the safety of water exposure, particularly swimming, after their child undergoes this procedure. Understanding water precautions is important for preventing complications. This guide explores the function of ear tubes and provides clear guidelines for safe swimming.
Understanding Ear Tubes
Ear tubes are tiny, hollow cylinders, typically made of plastic or metal, that surgeons insert into the eardrum during a procedure called myringotomy. This small device creates an airway, allowing air to circulate in the middle ear and preventing fluid buildup behind the eardrum.
The primary reasons for inserting ear tubes include recurrent acute otitis media (ear infections), chronic otitis media with effusion (fluid buildup without infection), or persistent middle ear infections that do not respond to antibiotics. This ventilation and drainage reduces the risk of future infections and improves hearing affected by fluid accumulation.
Normally, the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, perform these functions by equalizing pressure and draining fluid. In children, these tubes are narrower and more horizontal, making them prone to blockages and fluid retention, which ear tubes help to address.
Why Water Exposure is a Concern
Water exposure can be a concern for individuals with ear tubes because the tubes create an open pathway to the middle ear. Under normal circumstances, the eardrum acts as a barrier, preventing water from entering this space.
If water enters the middle ear through the tube, it can introduce bacteria, leading to an infection, medically known as otitis media. This can cause discomfort, pain, and ear discharge.
Soapy water, with its lower surface tension, may penetrate the tube more easily than plain water. The risk of infection is generally higher in untreated water sources like lakes and oceans due to their elevated bacterial concentrations.
Safe Swimming Guidelines
After ear tube placement, individuals can generally swim, but certain precautions are recommended to minimize the risk of infection. While some guidelines suggest no formal water precautions are needed for surface swimming in chlorinated pools, many specialists still advise protection. It is generally recommended to wait at least a day after surgery before engaging in swimming activities.
For casual swimming in chlorinated pools, earplugs may not always be necessary for children who do not submerge their heads deeply. However, if a child frequently submerges their head, experiences pain when water enters the ear, or swims in non-chlorinated water, ear protection becomes more important. Lakes, rivers, and oceans pose a higher risk of infection due to diverse microorganisms, making earplugs advisable in these environments. Similarly, when bathing, it is prudent to prevent soapy water from entering the ear canal, as soap can reduce surface tension and allow water to pass through the tubes more easily.
Moldable silicone earplugs are a common and effective option, and custom-fitted earplugs offer superior protection and comfort. Neoprene swimming headbands, such as the Ear Band-It, can be worn over earplugs to help keep them securely in place and provide an additional barrier. While headbands are not waterproof on their own, they work in conjunction with earplugs to create a more watertight system. Diving headfirst is generally not recommended, as it can dislodge ear protection and force water into the ears.
When to Consult a Doctor
Monitoring for signs of complications after water exposure is important for individuals with ear tubes. If any drainage is observed from the ear, especially if it is yellow, green, or bloody, or if it persists for more than 72 hours, it is advisable to contact a healthcare professional. Persistent drainage can indicate an ongoing infection that may require antibiotic ear drops.
Other symptoms that warrant medical attention include ear pain, discomfort, or a fever greater than 102°F following swimming or water exposure. If there is concern that an ear tube may have become dislodged, a doctor should also be consulted to assess the situation and ensure the ear is healing properly. After ear tubes naturally fall out, which typically occurs within 4 to 18 months, an ENT specialist should check the ear to confirm that the eardrum has healed completely before discontinuing water precautions.