Keeping Water Out of Your Ears at the Beach and Pool

A day at the beach or a swim at the pool is one of the simple pleasures of an Australian summer. For some people, though, water finding its way into the ears can be an irritating part of the experience. Feeling water trapped in the ear canal is a common sensation, and an audiologist or your GP can talk through what is suitable for you.

This is general information only. If you have ongoing concerns about your ears or water, or you are unsure what is suitable for you, it is wise to speak with an audiologist or your GP for advice tailored to your situation. Being gentle with your ears is a good principle to keep in mind throughout.

Why Water Can Feel Trapped in Your Ears

The ear canal has a natural shape that can sometimes hold onto a little water after swimming. When this happens, you might notice a blocked or muffled feeling, or a sense that sounds are slightly dulled. For some people this settles on its own, but a lingering feeling is worth having checked.

Understanding that this is a common experience can take some of the worry out of it. Still, if the feeling lingers or becomes bothersome, it is worth having your ears checked rather than trying to manage it yourself. A blocked sensation is common, but a check can offer reassurance.

Being Gentle With Your Ears After Swimming

The skin inside the ear canal is delicate and deserves a light touch. It is generally wise to avoid poking anything into the ear to remove water, including cotton buds, as this can cause irritation.

If the blocked feeling does not settle, an audiologist or your GP can examine your ears and advise what is suitable for you. That is a better option than persisting on your own.

Swimming Aids Designed for the Ears

Some people choose to use swimming earplugs designed to help keep water out during swimming. These come in different shapes and materials, and a snug fit tends to matter more than any particular style. They are designed to sit in or over the ear opening while you are in the water.

If you are interested in earplugs made to fit your ears, an audiologist can talk you through the general options. They can also help make sure anything you use sits correctly. A good fit is what allows this kind of aid to do its job.

After the Beach and Pool

Once you are out of the water, a blocked or muffled feeling is a common reason people ask about their ears. Being gentle is the main principle here, as with everything to do with the ears. There is no need to reach inside the ear, and your GP or an audiologist can advise on anything that does not feel right.

Keeping a note of how often it happens, and after which activities, can be useful to mention at an appointment. A relaxed, unhurried approach is usually the most sensible.

Being Mindful at the Beach and Pool

Beach water and pool water can feel different, and both are part of summer life in Australia. Whether you are in the surf, a still bay, or a chlorinated pool, the same gentle principles apply. Being aware of how your ears feel after each swim can help you notice any change.

If you notice ongoing discomfort after being in a particular type of water, keeping a note of it can be useful to mention at a check. This kind of detail can help a hearing care professional understand your experience. Small observations often turn out to be genuinely helpful.

Looking After Hearing Aids Near Water

If you wear hearing aids, water and swimming call for some extra care. Most hearing aids are not designed for swimming (check your own model with your audiologist), so many people remove them before getting in the water and store them safely in a dry place. Keeping them away from splashes and damp towels helps protect them.

Your audiologist can offer general guidance on caring for your particular devices around water and moisture. If you are ever unsure, asking before your next beach trip is a sensible step. A little planning means you can enjoy the water without worrying about your devices.

When to Have Your Ears Checked

Sometimes a blocked feeling after swimming does not clear on its own, or the ear feels sore or painful. When this happens, it is a good idea to have your ears looked at rather than waiting it out. A check can give you peace of mind and more information about what is going on. If you notice a sudden change in your hearing, see your GP or an emergency department the same day.

An audiologist or your GP can examine your ears and talk with you about anything you have noticed. There is no need to feel awkward about seeking a check, as looking after your ears is a normal part of staying well. Booking in early tends to be more reassuring than wondering.

Looking after your ears at the beach and pool is mostly about being gentle rather than anything complicated. Trapped water in the ear canal can leave a blocked feeling, so being gentle with your ears and having a lingering blocked feeling checked are both sensible. Swimming aids made for the ears are another option some people consider.

If your hearing aids come along on a warm day out, keeping them dry and away from splashes is worth a thought. An audiologist here in Brisbane can check your ears if a blocked feeling lingers after time at the beach and pool, as can your GP.

If you would like to learn more, or to arrange a hearing appointment, you are welcome to get in touch with our friendly team. No referral is necessary, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have.

DISCLAIMER:

The information on this website is provided for educational purposes only. We do not support, nor recommend any products or treatments without proper hearing diagnostic and proper hearing evaluation. All users must seek professional advice before beginning treatment as well as inform themselves of known side effects/risks associated with said procedure(s).

Disclaimer: The information in this article is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It does not take into account your individual circumstances and is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified hearing health professional about your specific needs.

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