Whether you’re a casual or professional swimmer, you are always at risk of water getting trapped in the ear and causing issues. This is because moisture can build up and lead to earwax becoming soft and swelling up, which can ultimately lead to a blockage. Having a simple, easy to follow routine can swimmers keep their ears nice and healthy.
The first thing to consider is using protection in the pool! Wearing protective gear such as a swimming cap and earplugs can help stop water from reaching inside your ears. Ensure you use the correct earplugs designed for swimmers and these will protect your ears from water and also make sure earwax is not getting pushed in deeper.
Once you have finished swimming, ensure you tilt your head to let any water drain from your ears naturally. You can use a clean dry towel to gently wipe the outer side of your ears to remove any moisture. Never stick anything into your ear canal as this can push the earwax in deeper and cause a blockage.
If you swim on a regular basis, ensure you have an ear care routine to help maintain your ear health. You can use a safe, natural oil drops such as olive or coconut oil to help remove any excess earwax naturally and keep your ears from drying out.
If you feel like your ears are clogged and you have muffled hearing, make sure you take a break from swimming until the issue clears. If you continue to get irritation then it could be a sign of swimmer’s ear, which you will require medical attention.
