Blocked ears and swimming pools: what’s the link?

An earwax blockage is caused by a build-up of earwax that blocks the ear canal. The waxy substance known as 'earwax' is naturally produced by sebaceous glands located in the ear canal. Its role is to protect the walls of the ear canal, prevent foreign objects from entering, and eliminate bacteria. 

Usually, earwax is naturally expelled from the ear. However, it can sometimes build up to form a wax plug, which can be varying degrees of thick and compact. The result? Symptoms that can range from mildly irritating to seriously distracting, such as a loss of hearing, a feeling of pressure, tinnitus and, occasionally, pain.

A very hard earwax plug may require treatment by a healthcare professional. It is important not to try to remove it yourself, as this could damage the ear canal or push the plug even further in.

Swimming: Water trapped in the ear after a swim can mix with earwax, encouraging the formation of blockages.

Excessive earwax production: Some people naturally produce more earwax, which can increase the risk of earwax blockages forming.

Poor ear hygiene: Repeated use of cotton buds can push earwax further into the ear canal. This then hardens and eventually forms a blockage. 

Ear anatomy: A narrower or more winding ear canal can make it harder for earwax to drain naturally.

Age: As we age, earwax can become harder, increasing the risk of blockages. This is particularly true when wearing a hearing aid, as this can interfere with the natural removal of earwax. 

Environmental factors: Dust, pollutants or regular exposure to noisy environments can stimulate the production of earwax.

When you put your head under water, the pool water is likely to exacerbate the build-up of earwax. When it enters the ear canal, it can soften earwax, cause it to swell and/or push it further into the ear. A barrier then forms in the ear, preventing the water from draining away naturally.

Added to this mechanism is the impact of chemicals such as chlorine, which can irritate the skin of the ear canal and trigger increased earwax production as a protective response.

Another possible consequence is that this build-up of earwax, combined with the presence of water, encourages the growth of bacteria and fungi, creating a risk of developing otitis externa, also known as ‘swimmer’s ear’.

The symptoms associated with blocked ears can vary, depending on the exact severity and nature of the blockage. Here are the main signs to look out for:

• Reduced hearing: you feel as though you can’t hear as well as usual, and often ask those around you to repeat themselves. 

• A feeling of pressure: your ear feels full or blocked.

• Pain: you have pain inside your ear.

• Tinnitus: You hear ringing or whistling in your ear.

• Unusual discharge: You notice a clear or pus-like discharge from your ear canal.

• Itching: You feel a tingling and itching sensation in your ear.

• Fever: In the case of an advanced infection, you may develop a slight fever. 

• Dizziness: In some cases, a build-up of earwax can disrupt your sense of balance and cause dizziness.

If the symptoms are severe, it is essential that you consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. However, looking after your ears after every swim will help you avoid these problems in the first place.

A few well-chosen traditional remedies can help clear a blocked ear after a swim. Here are some tried-and-tested methods:

1. First thing to try: To clear a blockage from your ear after swimming, try tilting your head towards the side of the blockage and gently pulling on your earlobe to help the water drain out.

2. The ‘Valsalva manoeuvre’: Don’t worry, it’s very simple: pinch your nose shut and blow gently through your nose; this may be enough to clear your ears.

3. The hairdryer technique: Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting to evaporate the water. Set it to cool to avoid burning yourself, and hold it 10–15 cm from your ear. 

4. Warm olive oil: A few drops of warm olive oil can help soften earwax and make it easier to remove.

5. Chewing gum: Chewing gum can help open the Eustachian tubes and release trapped water.

6. Avoid using cotton buds: Do not insert cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal, as they may push the earwax further into the ear. 

These natural methods can provide relief from blocked ears after swimming. However, if the symptoms persist or if your ear is blocked by a substantial build-up of earwax, we strongly advise you to consult a specialist.

Once again, prevention is better than cure. Here are a few practical tips to stop too much water getting into your ears at the seaside or in the swimming pool:

1. Wear a swimming cap: A well-fitting cap or headband greatly reduces your ears’ exposure to water. 

2. Use earplugs: Specially designed for swimming, plastic or silicone earplugs are very effective at keeping water out of your ears. 

3. Dry your ears after every swim: Use a soft towel or a hairdryer on a low heat setting to remove all traces of water or moisture.

If you follow these recommendations, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of blocked ears after a swim! Of course, looking after your ears on a daily basis is also essential to minimise the risk of infections.

'When your ears feel blocked, your first instinct is often to reach for a cotton bud. Big mistake! Inserting cotton buds or other sharp objects into the ear canal risks making the situation worse by pushing the earwax even deeper. Instead, use saline solutions available from the chemist or natural remedies to soften and remove the earwax. And if it doesn’t clear up or gets worse, it’s best to see a doctor.'

After graduating from ESCP Business School in 2020, Louise began her career as a writer in 2021. Today, she writes a newsletter where she shares cultural recommendations and more personal articles, such as dating apps, therapy, and career guidance. She also writes for media outlets, brands and agencies on subjects such as well-being, mental health, culture, and society.