There is nothing quite soothing in hot summer weather than diving headfirst into the cool embrace of water. Unless, of course, you’re a hearing aid wearer grappling with a notorious water nemesis (no, it’s not an octopus).

Swimmer’s ear is medically known as otitis externa and is a common condition among swimmers and individuals exposed to water. It happens when water remains trapped in the ear canal, creating a moist environment for bacterial and fungal growth. This infection affects the ear canal, causing discomfort, pain, inflammation, itching, and in some unfortunate cases, temporary hearing loss and increased sensitivity around the ear area. For those relying on hearing aids, swimmer’s ear can present unique challenges that requires careful attention and care.

Now, imagine adding hearing aids to the mix. These wonderful, life changing devices that amplify the world around you, trapping moisture inside the ear, promoting infection and potentially worsening its functionality. Certainly not the kind of situation that would bolster your summer fun. It’s important to take preventative measures to ensure your ear canal is not harboring the environment of a petri dish and especially crucial for those who wear hearing aids.

• Keep Ears Dry: Use earplugs or a swim cap to prevent water from entering the ear canal. After swimming or bathing, thoroughly dry the outer ear with a towel or a hairdryer on a low setting.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean hearing aids daily with a dry cloth to remove moisture and prevent bacterial buildup. Ensure ear molds and inserts are cleaned and dried thoroughly.
• Proper Fit: Ensure hearing aids fit properly to allow adequate ventilation and minimize moisture retention. Consult with an audiologist for adjustments if necessary.
• Avoid Irritants: Refrain from using cotton swabs or inserting foreign objects into the ear canal, as these can irritate the skin and increase infection risk.

If swimmer’s ear does occur despite preventive efforts, prompt management is essential:

• Temporary Discontinuation: Temporarily discontinue wearing hearing aids until the infection resolves. This allows the ear canal to heal and reduces the risk of exacerbating the condition.
• Follow Treatment Guidelines: Adhere to prescribed medications, such as antibiotic ear drops, to treat the infection effectively. Ensure hearing aids and accessories are sanitized according to guidelines to prevent reinfection.
• Monitor Symptoms: Regularly monitor symptoms such as pain, drainage, or changes in hearing. Report any concerns to a healthcare provider promptly.

If Swimmer’s Ear is still posing an issue despite efforts, medical attention may be required! Getting a prompt diagnosis and potential treatment early on is the best way to avoid exacerbating the condition. At the Toronto Hearing Health Clinic, we are happy to guide hearing aid users with proper management and care so they can enjoy the benefits of their hearing devices, including ear cleanings, hearing aid cleanings and hearing protection services.

Written by: Mariam Naveed, CDA