When you swim, water can cause the earwax to swell, blocking the ear canal and causing muffled hearing. This is especially true if you have a large amount of earwax buildup or if you use earplugs or earmuffs that push earwax deeper into the ear canal.
If water remains in the ear canal for an extended period, it can lead to an infection known as otitis externa , or more commonly, "swimmer's ear." This is an infection of the outer ear canal, not to be confused with a middle ear infection (otitis media) [10†L5-L10]. In fact, ear infections related to water are so widespread that they affect approximately 10% of people at some point, leading to over 2 million physician visits each year. muffled hearing after swimming patched
Tilt your head sideways with the blocked ear down. Cup your palm tightly over your ear, then push and release rapidly, flattening it and cupping it. This creates a gentle vacuum that can suction the water out. When you swim, water can cause the earwax
If your muffled hearing is strictly due to trapped water or minor earwax expansion, you can try these safe home extraction methods: 1. Use Gravity and Friction In fact, ear infections related to water are
If gravity fails, you can mix equal parts white vinegar and isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Drop 3 to 4 drops into your ear, wait 30 seconds, and tilt your head to let it drain. The alcohol helps evaporate the trapped water, while the vinegar creates an acidic environment that deters bacterial growth. Do not use this method if you have ear pain, a history of a ruptured eardrum, or ear tubes. Apply Gentle Heat
If the muffled hearing is accompanied by pain, itching, or swelling, you may have developed Swimmer's Ear. This often requires medical intervention.
He tried the classic hop-and-tilt on one foot in the kitchen, shaking his head like a wet dog. No dice. Just a faint, sloshy tickle. His mom, stirring a pot of spaghetti sauce, gave him a knowing look.