How to Protect You & Your Child’s Ears During Summer Months
As the last month of summer arrives, we are all trying to cram as much time in the sun as possible! While you and your family are enjoying pool time, concerts, and travel, we have a few tips to help you protect your ears.
SWIMMING
Swimming is a popular summer activity, but it can also lead to ear-related issues, such as swimmer's ear or ear infections. To ensure good ear care while enjoying the water, consider the following tips:
Use Waterproof Earplugs: If your child has a tendency to get ear infections, use earplugs. There are earplugs specifically designed for swimming that can reduce the chances of water entering the ear canal and causing an infection.
Dry Ears Often: After swimming, make sure to thoroughly dry your ears using a clean towel or a hairdryer on a low setting. Tilting your head to the side can help excess water drain out of the ear canal.
Avoid Inserting Objects: Refrain from using cotton swabs or any other objects to clean your ears, as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal or cause damage to delicate structures. Instead, consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your or your child’s ears.
TRAVEL
If you plan to fly over the next few weeks, try these tips to avoid issues related to changes in air pressure:
Swallow, Yawn, or Chew Gum (Paci’s help too): These actions help equalize the pressure in the middle ear and the environment, alleviating the discomfort caused by changes in air pressure. Encourage children to do the same or offer them a pacifier or a drink during takeoff and landing. If your little one takes a paci, this may come in handy for reducing ear pain during take-off and landing.
Noise-Canceling Earplugs: If you are sensitive to changes in air pressure or have experienced ear pain during flights, wearing specialized earplugs designed for air travel can help regulate pressure changes and provide relief.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before and during the flight helps maintain the flexibility of the Eustachian tubes, allowing them to function optimally and assist with pressure equalization.
CONCERTS & EVENTS
Summertime often involves attending various outdoor events, such as concerts, festivals, and sporting events, where the noise levels can be dangerously high. Here are a few tips to protect your and your child’s ears while at noisy events:
Find Ear Protection: Purchase earplugs or earmuffs that are designed to reduce noise levels without compromising the overall sound experience. These protective devices help filter out excessive noise and prevent potential damage to your hearing. Your child may enjoy picking out earmuffs that are themed to their favorite tv character.
Take Breaks: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds increases the risk of hearing damage and little ones can only tolerate so much noise at their age. Try to limit your time spent in noisy environments by stepping away to take breaks during an event.
Prioritizing ear care and hearing protection during the summer months is essential to safeguarding our auditory health. By following these simple yet effective tips, you can enjoy the season's activities without compromising your hearing. Remember, healthy ears contribute to a better overall quality of life, so take the necessary steps to protect them and seek professional help if you experience any persistent hearing issues. Have a safe and enjoyable summer, while keeping your ears happy and healthy!