Cheboygan, MI
Although swimming is rejuvenating, water can remain in the ears, and that’s pretty unpleasant. Moisture in the ears can seem like it’s no trouble, but if ignored, it can cause pain or even infections over time. That’s why it’s important to dry the ears after swimming, as this not only gets rid of that plugged-up feeling but also boosts general health.
There are different ways to take care of the ears without affecting the swimming schedule. A little care after swimming will go a long way in keeping the ears healthy and preventing needless problems, whether at the lake, pool, or ocean.
The Significance of Ear Dryness
A warm, humid atmosphere will be produced whenever water gets trapped in the ear. This can lead to a condition called swimmer’s ear, which happens when bacteria grow in the ear. Swimming or spending a lot of time in the water raises the risk of getting this condition. The chances of getting it can decrease when a person dries their ears after each swim.
Avoiding ear infections isn’t the only goal. Sometimes, having too much water can affect hearing for a while, causing all the sounds to become muffled or blocked. This will go away once the ears are fully dry, and it shows how important ear care is for both comfort and hearing after water activities.
Drying Towels Carefully
After swimming, don’t only focus on drying the skin. Surface water that clings to the ears can be removed by gently cleaning around the outer ear. When using the towel, it’s better to dab instead of rub. Too much rubbing can irritate the skin, especially after hours of exposure to salty or chlorinated water.
It’s best to allow the towel to slowly absorb moisture by letting it sit on the skin for a few seconds. It might take a little longer, but it keeps the water from moving inside the ear. This tiny action alone will reduce the chances of having trapped droplets inside the ear and causing an infection or further discomfort.
Protecting the Ears Before Swimming
Correction is more difficult than prevention. How much moisture can enter the ear in the first place will decrease depending on whether the person wears swim caps and earplugs made for swimming. These products form a protective layer and keep the ears dry.
It’s very important to choose high-quality earplugs because the ill-fitting ones can trap water rather than block it. As long as ear protection fits properly, one can protect the ears and keep them comfortable.
Allow Gravity to Assist
Gravity can cause water that’s trapped in the ear to flow out once the head is tilted to one side. This is a simple technique that one should consider after swimming or spending some time at the beach, especially when the water in the ear canal is still fresh.
But when getting water out of the ears, it’s better to be patient. Hold the position for a few seconds for the water to drip out naturally. Less water is left behind when this is combined with a towel to absorb the moisture. Stillness and slight motions combine to allow gravity to do its silent work.
Making Use of Mild Airflow
Using airflow is another useful strategy. Whatever moisture is left in the ears can be gently removed with a hair dryer, but it should be set to a very low heat and speed. Also, keep the dryer far from the ears and maintain the airflow so there won’t be any burns or irritation. It is not necessary to aim it straight into the ear. It makes a noticeable difference to simply allow the warm air to circulate nearby.
This technique can become a habit for people who swim frequently. After swimming for a long time, the mild drying effect will also make the ears more comfortable. But moderation is very important because excessive force or heat can cause more harm to the ears.
When to Get Assistance
Sometimes, the ears feel pain or irritation after swimming, even if they’ve been dried with a towel and a hair dryer. If there’s any discomfort, itching, or drainage in the ears for a long time, it might be a sign of something worse. It’s best to visit a hearing health professional at this point.
Swimming can continue to be pleasurable without concern if the ears are kept healthy. Working with a hearing health practice can offer individualized strategies and protection options for anyone who regularly swims. Scheduling an appointment not only facilitates prompt problem-solving but also guarantees ear health for subsequent swims.