For many families, summer means long days at the pool, weekend trips to the lake, and plenty of splashing in the sun. But while swimming is great for exercise and relaxation, it can come with a risk you might not expect: swimmers’ ear and hearing damage.
Whether you or a loved one already use hearing aids, or you’re simply trying to protect your ears, understanding how to prevent swimmer’s ear and summer-related hearing problems is essential.
At El Dorado Hearing, we often see an increase in patients reporting ear discomfort, fullness, and mild hearing loss during the hotter months. In this guide, we’ll break down what swimmer’s ear is, how it affects hearing, and how to keep your ears healthy all summer long.
What Is Swimmer’s Ear?
Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal, usually caused by bacteria or fungi that thrive in moist, warm environments, like the ear canal after swimming. Unlike middle ear infections, swimmer’s ear occurs in the outer portion of the ear and is often triggered by water that remains trapped after swimming or bathing.
Signs and Symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear:
- Itching or redness in the outer ear canal
- Mild pain that worsens when touching the ear
- Muffled hearing or a blocked sensation
- Drainage of clear fluid or pus
- Swelling or ear tenderness
Fun Fact: According to the CDC, swimmers’ ear results in over 2.4 million healthcare visits annually in the U.S., with a notable increase in cases during the summer months.
Can Swimmer’s Ear Cause Hearing Loss?
Yes, temporary hearing loss is a common symptom of swimmer’s ear. When the ear canal becomes inflamed or blocked with fluid and debris, sound waves have a harder time reaching the eardrum. This leads to what’s known as conductive hearing loss, which usually resolves once the infection is treated.
However, in people with pre-existing hearing loss, swimmer’s ear can further disrupt their ability to hear clearly, especially if they use hearing aids, which may irritate an already inflamed canal.
Risk Factors for Swimmer’s Ear
| Risk Factor | Why It Matters |
| Frequent swimming (especially in lakes) | Increases moisture in the ear canal |
| Using earbuds or hearing aids when wet | Traps moisture and bacteria |
| Aggressive ear cleaning (cotton swabs) | Can scratch the skin, allowing infection |
| High humidity and sweat | Encourages bacterial growth |
Arizona residents traveling to more humid or coastal destinations may be more vulnerable to swimmers’ ear if they’re not accustomed to frequent water exposure or high moisture.
Hearing Aid Users: Special Considerations
If you wear hearing aids, moisture from swimming or sweating can lead to device malfunctions, irritation of the ear canal, and even recurring infections if the hearing aid traps bacteria.
Tips for Hearing Aid Wearers:
- Remove devices before swimming and store them in a dry, hard-shell case.
- Let ears dry completely before reinserting hearing aids.
- Use a drying kit or dehumidifier each night during summer.
- Clean your hearing aids daily with a soft brush or cleaning tool.
- If you notice redness or itching, stop using the device and consult your provider.
How to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear and Protect Your Hearing
The good news? Swimmer’s ear is usually preventable with a few smart habits.
Summer Ear Care Do’s and Don’ts:
DO:
- Use custom-fit swim plugs to block water from entering the ear canal.
- Dry your ears after swimming by tilting your head and letting water drain.
- Use a towel or hair dryer on a low setting (held at least a foot away) to dry ears.
- Limit time in polluted or untreated water sources.
DON’T:
- Insert cotton swabs or fingers into the ear canal.
- Leave wet earbuds or hearing aids in your ears.
- Ignore ear pain or drainage; it may signal an early infection.
Natural Drying Tip:
A few drops of a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol can help dry excess moisture and prevent infection (consult your physician before use).
Q&A: Swimmer’s Ear and Summer Hearing Issues
Q: Can children get swimmer’s ear more easily?
A: Yes. Kids often swim more frequently and may not dry their ears properly. Pediatric ear canals are also smaller, making them more prone to blockage.
Q: Is it safe to swim with hearing aids?
A: No. Most hearing aids are water-resistant but not waterproof. Always remove them before entering any water.
Q: What if I already have mild hearing loss?
A: You may be more sensitive to ear infections. Any blockage or inflammation can make it harder to hear. Protecting your ears from water exposure is especially important.
When to See a Hearing Professional
If you experience any of the following, it’s time to schedule an appointment:
- Ongoing ear pain or fullness lasting more than two days
- Muffled or decreased hearing
- Unusual drainage or odor from the ear
- Hearing aid discomfort or malfunction after water exposure
At El Dorado Hearing, we offer in-depth ear exams, professional ear cleanings, and hearing aid servicing to help address and prevent swimmer’s ear complications.
Keep Your Ears Healthy All Summer Long
Swimming and outdoor fun shouldn’t come at the cost of your hearing. With the right protection and habits, you can enjoy the water and the sounds of summer without worry. Swimmer’s ear is preventable, and early intervention is key to keeping your hearing safe and sharp.
Trust Eldorado Hearing for Expert Summer Hearing Care
Whether you’re managing hearing loss, using hearing aids, or just want to keep your ears healthy during summer activities, Eldorado Hearing is here to help. We offer:
- Custom ear protection for swimmers
- Moisture-resistant hearing aid upgrades
- Professional care for swimmers’ ear and infections
- Safe wax removal and ear canal evaluations
Don’t let swimmer’s ear spoil your summer. Schedule your seasonal hearing checkup with Eldorado Hearing at eldoradohearing.com or call us today.
info@ElDoradoHearing.com
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