Your ear can feel blocked after swimming due to a few reasons, often related to water getting trapped or an infection developing. Here’s a breakdown:
One major cause is the presence of water remaining in your ear canal. However, according to the provided reference, another potential issue is the development of swimmer's ear, which is an infection or inflammation of the canal between the eardrum and the outer ear.
Potential Causes of a Blocked Ear After Swimming:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Trapped in Ear | Water can get stuck in your ear canal, leading to a feeling of fullness or blockage. |
| Swimmer's Ear | Swimmer's ear (from the reference) is an infection or inflammation of the ear canal. This can be caused by water remaining in the ear canal. Other causes include mechanical damage, chemical irritation and infected hair follicles. Treatment includes antibiotics, anti-fungal preparations, and keeping the ear dry. |
| Earwax Buildup | Water can soften and expand earwax, leading to a blockage. |
| Other Irritants | Chemicals in pool water (like chlorine) can sometimes irritate the ear canal. |
What is Swimmer's Ear?
As the provided reference notes, swimmer's ear involves infection or inflammation, and can stem from several issues, including:
- Water remaining in the ear canal.
- Mechanical damage.
- Chemical irritation.
- Infected hair follicles.
What can I do about a blocked ear?
Here are some simple tips for dealing with blocked ears after swimming:
- Tilt your head to the side and gently tug on your earlobe to help drain water.
- Use over-the-counter ear drops designed to dry out the ear canal.
- If you suspect an infection, see a doctor.
