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What Is Swimmer’s Ear?

Swimmer’s ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal that can cause pain and discomfort. It is a common condition among swimmers; however, anyone can be affected by it. Here at Audiology Innovations in Calgary, Canada, we want to make sure you’re aware of the causes, symptoms, and methods of prevention and treatment of swimmer’s ear. We offer the best earplugs for swimming so that you can enjoy your time in the water without worry. Schedule your appointment today and get your custom earplugs.

Symptoms

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear may include pain, itching, swelling, and redness in the affected area. You may also experience a feeling of fullness in the ear, and some people may have discharge from the ear.

person with finger to ear in pain

person with ear pain

Causes

The most common cause of swimmer’s ear is water that becomes trapped in the ear canal. This trapped water can create an environment that is ideal for bacteria and fungi to grow, which can then lead to infection. Other causes of swimmer’s ear include trauma to the ear canal due to scratching or inserting objects into the ear. 

How to Get Rid of Swimmer’s Ear

If you suspect you have swimmer’s ear, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics or other medications to help clear up the infection. In some cases, your doctor may need to flush the ear with a solution in order to clear the infection.

ear doctor inspecting patient

orange earplugs

Prevention

The best way to prevent swimmer’s ear is to keep water out of your ear canal. This can be done by wearing a swim cap and making sure to cover your ears or using quality ear protection when swimming. At Audiology Innovations, we offer custom-fit earplugs for swimming that are designed to provide the best protection while still allowing you to hear clearly.

Swimmer’s ear can be a painful and serious condition, but it is typically preventable with the right precautions. The best way to protect your ears while swimming is to invest in custom-fit earplugs for swimming. At Audiology Innovations in Calgary, Canada, we are committed to helping you find the best ear protection for swimming, so you can enjoy your time in the pool worry-free. Schedule your appointment today.

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