Given the limited warm weather in Western New York, residents in the region make the most of it by indulging in various summer activities, including swimming, Whether it’s in a pool, lake, or ocean, people in Buffalo eagerly seize the opportunity to swim during the short months of sunshine,
While swimming is a fantastic way to stay active and cool in the hot weather, it’s essential to take precautions to prevent the development of swimmer’s ear. Spending extended periods in the water without protection can lead to swimmer’s ear. When this happens, individuals will be forced to refrain from swimming, as it can worsen the condition.
What is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear is an infection in the outer ear canal, which runs from your eardrum to the outside of your head. It can occur when water stays in the ear canal for long periods of time, which can provide an environment for germs to grow and infect the skin.
How to recognize if you have swimmers ear? According to Mayo Clinic, the top symptoms (from mild to moderate to advanced) of swimmers ear include:
Mild:
– Itching in your ear canal
– Slight redness in your ear
– Some drainage of clear, odorless fluid
– Mild discomfort when pulling on your outer ear (pinna or auricle) or pushing on the bump on the front of your ear (tragus)
Moderate:
– More intense itching
– Increase in pain
– More redness in ear
– Excess fluid drainage
– Muffled hearing
– Feeling of fullness inside your ear / partial blockage of ear canal by swelling
Advanced Progression:
– Severe pain that may radiate to your face, neck, or side of your head
– Complete blockage of your ear canal
– Fever
– Swelling in lymph nodes in your neck
Solutions for Prevention
Though store-bought earplugs offer some protection, custom ear molds and ear plugs offer maximum protection and a comfortable fit that is designed specifically for your ears. At Lake Shore Audiology, we have the ability to craft custom ear molds to meet your specific needs. Beyond swimming ear molds, we also provide musician ear molds and ear molds for other professions in loud environments. Keep your ears dry and protected this summer by taking advantage of custom ear molds and earplugs. To learn more or schedule an appointment at Lake Shore Audiology, please contact us or call 716-674-4188 today.
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/swimmers-ear/symptoms-causes/syc-20351682
