Don’t Underestimate Earache: Risk of Infection Increases in Summer
Op. Dr. Sezgin Bekdemir provided important information about the causes, symptoms and prevention of outer and middle ear infections.
Op. Dr. Sezgin Bekdemir, an Ear, Nose and Throat Diseases Specialist at Private ENTO Ear, Nose and Throat Surgical Medical Center, stated that complaints of ear pain increase significantly during the summer months as the sea and swimming pool season begins. Drawing attention to the fact that outer ear canal infections, particularly common among frequent swimmers, can lead to severe pain and hearing problems if not treated in time, Bekdemir explained the causes, symptoms and prevention methods of outer and middle ear infections.
Bekdemir noted that the most common ear problem encountered during the summer is an outer ear canal infection, also known as “swimmer’s ear,” and said: “Moisture remaining in the ear canal after swimming in the sea or pool creates a suitable environment for bacteria and fungi. This can pave the way for inflammation of the outer ear canal. Swimming in pools with inadequate hygiene significantly increases the risk of infection.”
Symptoms of Outer Ear Infection
Bekdemir stated that symptoms of an outer ear infection may include pain that worsens when the ear is touched, a feeling of fullness in the ear, itching, discharge and reduced hearing. He said: “Severe pain when the earlobe or outer ear is pulled or pressed is an important sign of an outer ear infection.”
Although middle ear infections are more commonly associated with upper respiratory tract infections during the winter months, Bekdemir noted that they can also occur in summer. He said: “Especially in children, infections that develop after swimming in the sea or pool, allergic rhinitis or problems related to enlarged adenoids can trigger middle ear infections. Severe ear pain, fever, hearing loss and, in some cases, discharge from the ear may occur.”
Dr. Bekdemir also drew attention to common mistakes regarding ear cleaning. He said: “Cotton swabs may push earwax deeper into the ear rather than removing it and can damage the ear canal’s natural protective layer. In addition, small scratches on the skin can make it easier for an infection to develop. Therefore, avoid using cotton swabs.”
Recommendations for Protecting Ear Health in Summer
Bekdemir offered the following recommendations to protect ear health:
“After swimming in the sea or pool, the ears should be gently dried. Water should not be allowed to remain inside the ear for a long time. The ears should not be cleaned with cotton swabs or hard objects. Avoid swimming in pools where hygiene cannot be guaranteed. If ear pain, discharge or hearing loss develops, do not use ear drops on your own; consult an ENT specialist. People who frequently experience outer ear infections may use protective earplugs recommended by their doctor while swimming.”
Emphasizing that ear pain should not be underestimated, Bekdemir said: “With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, both outer and middle ear infections can be brought under control in a short time. In delayed cases, the infection may spread and the treatment process may take longer. To prevent health problems from interrupting the summer holiday, proper attention should be paid to ear health.”
