Do Not Underestimate Ear Pain
Do Not Underestimate Ear Pain
Op. Dr. Sezgin Bekdemir, an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialist at Private ENTO Ear, Nose and Throat Surgical Medical Center, stated that complaints of ear pain increase significantly during the summer months with the opening of the sea and swimming pool season.
Op. Dr. Sezgin Bekdemir, an ENT Specialist at Private ENTO Ear, Nose and Throat Surgical Medical Center, noted that external ear canal infections, particularly common among frequent swimmers, can cause severe pain and hearing problems if not treated in a timely manner. Dr. Bekdemir provided important information about the causes, symptoms, and prevention of external and middle ear infections.
Dr. Bekdemir stated that the most common problem encountered during the summer is an external 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 and infection of the external ear canal. Swimming in poorly maintained or contaminated pools significantly increases the risk of infection.”
What Are the Symptoms of an External Ear Infection?
Dr. Bekdemir explained that an external ear infection may cause pain that worsens when the ear is touched, a feeling of fullness in the ear, itching, discharge, and decreased hearing.
“Severe pain when the auricle is pulled or pressed is an important finding that may indicate an external ear infection,” he said.
Middle Ear Infections Can Also Occur in Summer
Although middle ear infections are more commonly associated with upper respiratory tract infections during the winter months, Dr. Bekdemir pointed out that they can also occur in summer.
“Especially in children, infections that develop after swimming in the sea or pool, allergic rhinitis, or problems involving enlarged adenoids can trigger middle ear infections. Severe ear pain, fever, hearing loss, and sometimes discharge from the ear may occur,” he said.
Dr. Bekdemir also drew attention to common mistakes made when cleaning the ears:
“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 infections to develop. Therefore, avoid using cotton swabs.”
Key Recommendations for Protecting Ear Health in Summer
Dr. 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 long periods. The ears should not be cleaned with cotton swabs or hard objects. Avoid swimming in pools whose hygiene cannot be assured. If ear pain, discharge, or hearing loss develops, do not use ear drops on your own; consult an ENT specialist. People who frequently experience external ear infections may use protective earplugs recommended by their physician while swimming.”
Early Intervention Is Important
Emphasizing that ear pain should not be underestimated, Dr. Bekdemir said:
“With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, both external 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, appropriate attention should be paid to ear health.”
(BSHA – Science and Health News Agency)
https://www.bsha.com.tr/kulak-agrisini-hafife-almayin/
