It is not recommended to use cotton swabs to remove water, as this often leads to injury.If there is acute or chronic inflammation in the ear, water is strictly contraindicated. In this case, any swimming or diving should be excluded, and the head should be washed carefully, having previously plugged the ear with cotton wool. To enhance the protective effect, you can pre-lubricate it with a greasy cream or moisten it with vegetable oil and squeeze it out.
It’s definitely not worth using special silicone plugs, because, firstly, they do not guarantee complete protection against water ingress, and, secondly, bacteria remain on them, which, with repeated use, can provoke inflammation.
If you find water trapped in your ears after swimming, there are a few simple home remedies you can try to remove it:
- Tilt your head: Tilt your head to the side and gently pull your earlobe in different directions to help water drain out.
- Use gravity: Lie on your side with the affected ear facing down to allow gravity to assist in draining the water out.
- Use a hairdryer: Set your hairdryer to the lowest setting and hold it at least 12 inches away from your ear to help evaporate any remaining water.
- Use ear drops: Over-the-counter ear drops can help break down ear wax and facilitate the removal of trapped water.
Water getting into your ears while swimming is a common issue that can be easily addressed with the right preventive measures and simple home remedies. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can enjoy your swimming sessions without worrying about discomfort or potential ear infections. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to ear health.