How to Protect Ears From Water

Prevent potential infections by keeping water out of your ears.

Water can enter the ear from various sources such as showering, bathing or swimming. While many times the water will drain back out of the ear, sometimes it doesn't. This can present a problem if bacteria or fungi are present in the water as the ear'smoist environment will promote growth and likely result in an ear infection. Yet, with a few precautionary measures, you can prevent water from entering your ears.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton balls
• Towel
• Hair dryer with low heat setting

Instructions

1. Place cotton balls in your outer ear before showering to prevent water from getting in your ears. Tear the cotton ball apart to make it a size that will fit in your outer ear and cover the opening to your ear canal.

2. Tilt your head with one ear facing the floor and pull down on your earlobe with your fingers to rid the ear of any water that may have entered your ear. Repeat with the other side.

3. Dab the outer ear with a clean, dry towel to soak up any moisture. Set a hand-held hair dryer on a low-heat setting and blow warm air into your ear to help dry the moisture.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a swimmer's cap while swimming to protect your ears from water.

• There are specialized ear plugs designed for those who swim to help keep water from entering the ears.

• Never insert anything into the ear canal such as cotton swabs or fingers. This can impact ear wax or even damage the inner ear.

• Don't hold the hair dryer too close to your ear, to avoid discomfort.

References

• Family Doctor: Swimmer's Ear
• ENT Associates: Swimmer's Ear