When water gets trapped in your ear, causing muffled sounds and discomfort, it’s often called swimmer’s ear. Understanding what swimmer’s ear is, why it impacts your hearing, and how to manage and prevent it can help you find relief and avoid future occurrences.
Understanding Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear, medically known as otitis externa, refers to an infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal, the passage extending from the ear opening to the eardrum. This condition frequently develops when water remains in the ear canal, creating a warm, moist environment conducive to the growth of bacteria or, less commonly, fungi. The trapped moisture can soften the skin lining the ear canal, making it more susceptible to infection.
Beyond retained water, other factors can also contribute to developing swimmer’s ear. Minor scratches or abrasions within the ear canal, often caused by inserting objects like cotton swabs or fingers, can compromise the skin’s protective barrier. Allergic reactions to certain ear products or excessive cleaning that removes protective earwax, which naturally guards against infection, can also increase vulnerability. People who swim frequently, live in humid climates, or have certain skin conditions like eczema are more likely to experience this condition.
Why Hearing is Affected
The muffled hearing associated with swimmer’s ear stems from specific changes within the ear canal. The infection or inflammation causes the lining of the ear canal to swell, narrowing the passage through which sound waves normally travel. This physical obstruction impedes the sound waves from reaching the eardrum effectively.
The infection often leads to fluid buildup, such as pus or discharge, and an accumulation of cellular debris and earwax within the constricted canal. This additional material further blocks the passage, significantly dampening sound transmission to the eardrum. The resulting hearing impairment is typically conductive hearing loss, meaning sound waves are not being properly conducted through the outer ear. This hearing reduction is usually temporary and resolves once the infection is treated and the swelling subsides.
Identifying Other Symptoms
Beyond muffled hearing, swimmer’s ear presents with other symptoms. Ear pain, ranging from mild to severe, often worsens when the outer ear is touched or pulled. An itchy sensation within the ear canal is also common. The outer ear might appear red or swollen, and a feeling of fullness or pressure inside the ear is common. Sometimes, a clear, yellowish, or foul-smelling discharge may drain from the ear. These symptoms often develop gradually but can intensify if the infection remains untreated.
Managing and Preventing Swimmer’s Ear
Treating swimmer’s ear involves medical intervention to clear the infection. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe, worsen, or persist, especially if accompanied by fever, spreading redness, or continued hearing loss. Healthcare providers commonly prescribe antibiotic or antifungal ear drops to combat the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, such as cotton swabs, and refrain from using unapproved home remedies, particularly if there is any concern about a perforated eardrum.
Preventing swimmer’s ear involves several steps. After swimming or showering, thoroughly dry the ears by tilting the head to allow water to drain, gently wiping the outer ear with a towel, or using a hairdryer on its lowest, coolest setting held at a distance. Wearing earplugs specifically designed for swimming can also help keep water out of the ear canal. Avoid excessive or aggressive ear cleaning with cotton swabs or other objects, as this can damage the protective skin and earwax. For individuals prone to swimmer’s ear, some over-the-counter preventative ear drops, often alcohol-based, can be used, but consult a doctor first.