Otolaryngologists have such a term in everyday life as "swimmer's ear". This expression is called otitis externa, which often occurs as a result of water entering the auricle. This phenomenon is rightfully considered a “summer disease”, because it is in the summer, when many people start the swimming season, that it is difficult to surprise anyone with water that has got into the ear. Unfortunately, very often very young children suffer from water in the ear, since up to 4 years old the child's ear canal is very wide and does not prevent moisture from getting inside. What to do if water gets into your ears?
This happens very often when diving. It seems to be swimming, swimming, went ashore - and gurgles in the ear. The feeling, frankly, is not pleasant. In principle, if you do not suffer from any chronic ear diseases, follow the hygiene of the auricle and do not get into drafts, there will be no harm from the fact that water gets into your ears. Sometimes it's enough to shake your head inthe side of the ear where the water flooded. You can also give the head a horizontal position - lie on its side with the affected ear down. Under the influence of gravity, the water will pour out.
What should I do if water gets into my ears and hasn't poured out for several hours? This is worse, because under the influence of water, accumulations of sulfur in the ear canal can swell and create a deaf plug, which will further provoke inflammation. If you have returned home from the beach, try to drop an alcohol-containing liquid into your ear: lotion, vodka diluted with water, boric alcohol. Literally two or three drops can help the liquid come out. If alcohol is not at hand, a solution of vinegar or hydrogen peroxide can replace it.
But what you absolutely should not do, especially for children, is to try to dry your ear with a hair dryer. Instead of spilled water, you can get burned skin and decreased hearing due to the loud buzzing of the device. And the water will still remain inside, because the ear is a very complex organ, consisting of curls, and the water gets into a labyrinth, as it were, that is, the heat from the hair dryer will be ineffective here.
What to do if water gets into the ears and has already caused pain? Most likely, you have formed a sulfur plug and has already managed to swell. In no case do not try to remove it yourself - there is a high probability that during the extraction you will damage the eardrum. See an otolaryngologist. The specialist will be able to alleviate your suffering and find the right medicine to relieve pain.
Another good way
Well, the most useful advice about what to do if water gets into your ears is to prevent it. No wonder they say: forewarned is forearmed. When swimming, use special rubber caps that protect the ear canal. You can also purchase special earplugs. If you do not want to use these accessories on the beach, then just try to keep your head above the surface of the water, do not get cold when diving and monitor your ear hygiene before going to the beach. May your ears be he althy and not turn into "swimmer's ear".
