What to do when you have water in your ear

Whether it comes from the pool, the sea or a bath, having water in your ear is never comfortable and can cause serious complications.

Taking a dip in the pool is wonderful until you notice your ear has filled with water. What to do in these cases? “Water in the ear” is quite common and can affect anyone, in different situations: at the sea, in the pool … even in the bathtub. See below for what to do and how to deal with this situation.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE WATER IN THE EAR?

“The ear canal is between 2 and 3 centimeters long and, under normal conditions, it shouldn’t accumulate moisture,” explains the Dr. Roberto Angeli , Otolaryngologist, specialist at the Brazilian Association of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. “However, some people end up retaining fluid within this duct after performing activities such as swimming or even a recreational bath at a beach or pool.”

While common, this is a condition that requires attention, after all, the ear canal naturally has an acidic pH that makes it difficult for fungi and bacteria to proliferate. However, when it remains humid for a longer time, on average between 3 and 4 days, this environment becomes more alkaline and the germs end up finding a more favorable environment for development.

“Initially, there is only discomfort and itching in the region,” says the doctor. “However, a pattern of infection can develop which we call otitis externa. This situation is characterized by pain of varying intensity and denser discharge.”

HOW TO TREAT THE WATER IN THE EAR?

According to the doctor, the main measure in such cases is preventive. Earwax (ie “earwax”) plays a key role, as it helps maintain the acidic environment and also creates an oily waterproofing layer that facilitates the flow of moisture that can accumulate inside the ear canal.

“Extensive and repeated cleanings are not recommended, as they end up removing this protective layer. Excess wax can and should be removed in specific situations, but always under the supervision of a specialized doctor,” he advises.

In fact, home cleaning, with improvised tools, is completely contraindicated, as it can cause trauma not only to the walls of the duct, but also to the tympanic membrane, which is located at the end of this canal.

However, if you notice that the ear is already blocked by water, it is best to see a doctor when this condition lasts longer than 1 or 2 days.

“Symptoms such as itching, choking and, most importantly, ear discharge and pain are warning signs that must be taken into consideration. The otolaryngologist is the specialist with training and resources to evaluate these cases and, if necessary, offer appropriate treatment. it may include site cleansing only, local drops, or, in severe cases, with infection, oral antibiotics, “he concludes.

Source: Terra

Benjamin

Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.