Custom Ear Plugs for Swimming
Custom moulded ear plugs protection
Should you wear earplugs when swimming?
Yes. Although it is advisable to always wear swimming ear protection if you are a regular swimmer. Unfortunately the time when people realise they need earplugs is after they suffer from infection, irritation or a perforated eardrum.
How do you wear earplugs in the water?
Our custom-made swimming earplugs are shaped to fit precisely inside the ear and create a water-tight seal.
You may see some swimmers wear an extra headband too.
What are the best earplugs for swimmers?
Swimmer’s main concerns are that the earplugs might fall out mid swim or they will hurt or be uncomfortable.
That’s why we advise custom-made earplugs for swimmers so that they fit perfectly and even float in the water if dropped!
Off the shelf foam earplugs may be cheap, but they are not always suitable. We advise that you wear medical grade silicone earplugs which are strong and durable and custom moulded to fit the precise shape of your ears.
How do I protect my ears?
Custom-made earplugs for swimming will help protect your ears against infections like swimmer’s ear.
What is ‘otitis externa’?
Otitis externa is also known as ‘swimmer’s ear’ and it is usually caused by trapped water in the ears. Swimmer’s ear is a type of infection that causes redness and swelling of the outer ear and the ear canal. Your ears can become very itchy and also produce a smelly discharge.
How can I get a pair?
01923 372101 (Radlett) or 01462 506074 (Hitchin)
and we will be able to find a solution to your specific needs so that you can enjoy swimming without ear pain or infection.
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
QHow to unblock ears after swimming?
AIf you find that water is trapped in one or both of your ears after you’ve been swimming, there are various ways you can try to remove it. However, it is important to know that wax build up in the ears may be causing the water to get trapped. If the steps below don’t help, please get in touch and we will help clear your ears using microsuction wax removal.
- Lie down on the affected side of the body for five or ten minutes.
- Tilt your head down towards your shoulder and tug or jiggle your earlobe. You can also try shaking your head from side to side.
- Soak a flannel in warm water and wring it out, then hold it against the ear. Tilt your head down to your shoulder at the same time. Leave the flannel for 30 seconds, remove for 60 seconds, and repeat several times.
- Use a hairdryer to evaporate the trapped water. Use the lowest setting and hold it about a foot away from your ear. Tug your earlobe down and move the dryer from side to side.
Using earplugs is a good way to prevent water getting trapped in your ears. Come and see us at The Hearing Clinic to find the right earplugs for you or your child.
QWhat causes swimmer’s ear?
ASwimmers, and particularly children, can be prone to swimmer’s ear, an infection of the skin of the ear canal caused by water-borne bacteria not draining away.
In the warm, moist environment of the ear canal, the bacteria thrive, multiplying and causing an infection that leads to swelling (and, therefore, hearing loss), inflammation and pain.
QWhat causes ear infections from swimming pools?
ASwimmer’s ear is caused when bacteria-laden water in the ear canal doesn’t drain away. While water in swimming pools is usually treated with chemicals to kill bacteria, some may still be present, so anyone who is a regular swimmer will be at risk of developing the condition.
Always wear earplugs when swimming to prevent the water getting into your ear canals, and always dry your ears thoroughly after swimming.
QWhere can I buy ear plugs for swimming?
AThe Hearing Clinic stocks a range of earplugs for swimmers and surfers and we’ll be happy to advise you on the best one for you or your child.
