Swimmers Ear
It is known that repeated exposure to water can make the ear
canal more vulnerable to inflammation and this is why the condition otitis
externa is often referred to as ‘swimmers ear’.
Otitis externa is a condition that causes inflammation
(redness and swelling) of the external ear canal, which is the tube between the
outer ear and eardrum.
According to NHS references Symptoms of otitis externa
include:
ear pain, which can be severe
itchiness in the ear canal
a discharge of liquid or pus from the ear
some degree of temporary hearing loss
Usually only one ear is affected.
With treatment, these symptoms should clear up within a few
days. However, some cases can persist for several months or longer. Obviously
if you have any concerns please do visit your GP for examination so they can
determine what type of infection you have and prescribe medication if
appropriate.
What causes Otitis Externa?
Most cases of otitis externa are caused by a bacterial
infection, although the condition can also be caused by:
irritation
fungal infections
allergies
There are a number of things that can make you more likely
to develop otitis externa, including:
damaging the skin inside your ear
and regularly getting water in your ear
Surfers Ear
Surfer’s ear or external auditory exostoses (EAE) is a
slowly progressive disease caused by benign bone growth resulting from chronic
cold water exposure.
Whilst this condition is most classically associated with
surfing it can be seen in any individual who is repeatedly exposed to cold
water such as surfers, swimmers, divers, kayakers, and sailors. Surfer's ear is
usually asymptomatic but can cause symptoms such as hearing loss, recurrent
infections, etc. Treatment usually involves medical management but may include
surgery if symptoms become severe.
This condition is considered preventable.
Preventive measures include increased awareness and education among
high-risk populations on the risks of repetitive, chronic cold water exposure.
Consistent use of physical ear protection during cold water
exposure can prevent cold water from
entering the ear canal and can mitigate the development and progression of
exostoses. In one study, wearing earplugs or a hood was noted to significantly
reduce the risk of developing exostoses. Earplugs are more effective at
preventing water from entering the external auditory canal as they provide a
seal. Wetsuit hoods are semi-permeable. They limit the volume and speed at
which water can enter the ear canal, but do not completely prevent water from
entering. Wetsuit hoods provide valuable warmth and insulation for the ears.
The best way to prevent EAE in people who are frequently exposed to cold water
is to use both earplugs and a wetsuit hood.
Surfer's
Ear - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
Feeling
Dizzy?
I used to get this all the time when swimming, feeling dizzy
and not quite with it. Now I know for me this was likely the result of cold
water entering the ears and under certain conditions causing reflex activity in
the semicircular canals of the internal ear or labyrinth. If this happens to you best get checked out
as cold water puts your body under extreme stress. If it turns out feeling dizzy is caused by
the cold in your ears get them protected.
Protection
As a regular swimmer please consider that
prevention is better than cure. I’ve tried
most things; hard plugs, soft plugs, custom made, ear band, dive hood, blutack,
double hat and a mixture of all; but
most let the water in. The closest I
have got to a good seal is the mouldable silicone plugs with a snug fitting hat,
but then I struggle to hear what’s going on.
I have just purchased some swim ears, I’ve done two swims and so far so
good and most important for me as a coach is that they seem to fit well and I
can hear with them in! I would suggest
trying everything you can and seeing what works for you as an individual .…at
some point I’m sure you will find your best option.
Please note
that we are not medical professionals and if you have any concerns about your
health you should seek advice from your GP.
©Solent Swim School 2022
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