Protecting your ears when swimming
If you swim often, water can stay in your ear canal and expose you to an outer ear infection, known as swimmer's ear. With the right habits your ears stay healthy. This guide explains how to prevent it and which symptoms mean you should seek treatment.
You will need
- Swimmer's earplugs (silicone or mouldable)
- A swimming cap
- A soft towel
- A hairdryer
Steps
Know about swimmer's ear
An outer ear infection flares up when a damp ear canal softens and bacteria or fungi can grow. Symptoms include itching, pain when the earlobe is pulled, redness and discharge.
Choose suitable earplugs
Put your swimming cap over the earplugs
Tilt the water out
Dry your ears carefully
Don't use cotton buds
Look after the skin of your ears
Take a break when you have symptoms
Seek treatment if needed
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