A specialist places a small, sterile patch (often made of special paper or collagen) over the tear in the eardrum.
Mix one part white vinegar with one part rubbing alcohol. Using a dropper, place two or three drops in the ear, wait 30 seconds, and tilt your head to drain. Avoid this if you have ear tubes or a punctured eardrum. 3. Treating Muffled Hearing from Swimmer's Ear
If you suspect an infection, you must see a doctor. They will typically prescribe antibiotic or antifungal ear drops to clear the swelling and resolve the muffled hearing. How to Prevent Trapped Water in the Future
Sometimes, pressure changes while swimming or diving can damage the eardrum. If your muffled hearing is accompanied by , or bloody discharge , you may have a punctured (perforated) eardrum.
Muffled hearing after swimming is most commonly caused by water becoming physically trapped in the ear canal or an ensuing infection called otitis externa (Swimmer's Ear) The Sensation of "Cotton Wool" muffled hearing after swimming patched
If adhesive patches do not provide a sufficient seal, many swimmers prefer moldable silicone putty
Yawn or chew gum while tilting your head to help open the eustachian tubes. When It Might Be Swimmer's Ear
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are in severe pain, have discharge, or symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, please see a doctor immediately.
The most effective approach is prevention. By thoroughly drying your ears, using protective gear, and keeping your ear canals healthy, you can ensure that the only sounds you miss after a swim are the ones you choose to block out. Take care of your ears, and they will take care of you—keeping your world sounding as vibrant and clear as the water you love. A specialist places a small, sterile patch (often
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.
To avoid dealing with muffled hearing after your next swim, consider these preventive "patches":
Muffled hearing after swimming is usually caused by in the outer ear canal or swimmer’s ear (otitis externa), an infection triggered by moisture that allows bacteria to grow . While often temporary, it requires prompt action to prevent pain or long-term damage. 1. Immediate Solutions for Trapped Water
Shake your head and dry your outer ears thoroughly with a clean towel the moment you step out of the water. To help narrow down the best solution for you, tell me: How long has your hearing been muffled? Are you experiencing any pain, itching, or fluid drainage ? Avoid this if you have ear tubes or a punctured eardrum
Use a hairdryer on its lowest heat and lowest speed setting, holding it at least a foot away from your ear to dry the canal.
Swimmer's Ear (Otitis Externa): Symptoms & Care - Cleveland Clinic
: Sometimes the pressure is in your Eustachian tubes (the middle ear). Moving your jaw can help open these tubes and equalize pressure. When to See a Professional
Try these methods in order, from gentlest to most effective.
Muffled Hearing After Swimming: Causes, Fixes, and When to Worry