Don’t let swimmer’s ear disrupt your training

The more you can avoid common and uncomfortable ailments, the better your triathlon season will go. Here’s how to dodge swimmer’s ear…

We all have unavoidable setbacks in our season. Whether it’s a flat tyre on a long ride, or a late work shift that derails your session in the pool, sometimes there’s just nothing you can do about it. 

When it comes to your health though, there are several conditions which can be easily avoided. One which you may not have considered? Swimmer’s ear – but this outer ear infection can affect even the most dedicated athlete. 

With swim sessions making up a crucial part of training, preventing and managing this condition can be key to keeping performance on track. Here’s a bit more about the symptoms to look out for and what you can do to help prevent it. 

What causes an outer ear infection?

An outer ear infection, also known as otitis (meaning inflammation) externa, is often called swimmer’s ear because regular exposure to water heightens the risk of getting it.¹

It’s usually caused by a bacterial – sometimes fungal – infection but it can also be linked to skin conditions like eczema or an irritation² caused by a cotton bud or a finger nail which can damage the delicate skin in the ear canal³.

When water lingers in the ear after swimming, it can create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.³

Symptoms to watch for

Swimmer’s ear is a common condition and recognising the signs can help you take action. These include:² 

• Earache
• Itchiness in and around the ear.
• Redness and swelling around the ear.¹
• Tenderness around the ear or jaw.¹
• A feeling of fullness or blocked ears.
•  Watery or pus-like discharge. 
• Mild, temporary hearing loss.
• Prevention strategies for triathletes

Triathletes are particularly susceptible to outer ear infections due to frequent water exposure, but these proactive measures can help to minimise risk:

• Wearing a well-fitting silicon swimming cap can help keep excess water from entering the ears.³
• Try using swimming ear plugs but insert them carefully so you don’t irritate the ear canal.¹
• Dry your ears thoroughly after every swim – tilt your head to each side to allow excess water to drain and use a soft towel to remove residual moisture.³
• Shower after you swim – particularly if you train in a pool as chlorine can dry out the ear canal.³

Treatment and recovery

If an infection does develop don’t be tempted to get back in the water until it has fully cleared.¹ With treatment swimmer’s ear often gets better in a few days.¹

Try to avoid getting water or shampoo in your ears when in the shower or bath – if that’s tricky insert cotton wool smeared with petroleum jelly in the ears.²

EarCalm Spray 

Speak to your pharmacist for advice on managing the symptoms and a suitable treatment.¹

EarCalm Spray is used for the treatment of minor infections of the outer ear in adults and children aged 12 and over. 

It contains an antibacterial ingredient called acetic acid to help target and clear the infection and provide calming relief of uncomfortable symptoms. Always read the label.

EarCalm Spray is available without prescription from pharmacies.

More information

1 www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/ears-nose-and-throat/otitis-externa/
2 www.nhs.uk/conditions/ear-infections/
3 www.swimming.org/justswim/manage-prevent-swimmers-ear/