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A member asked:
Will swimming aggravate an ear infection?
9 doctors weighed in across 5 answers
Depends: If it is an outer ear infection (swimmer's ear), yes swimming can aggravate the infection. If it is a middle ear infection with a perforated ear drum... Yes it can aggravate that as well.
Answered 6/22/2018
6.3k views
Outer ear infections: Only if you have an outer ear infection, also know as swimmer's ear. Then you must keep it dry or it will get worse.
Answered 6/22/2018
5.1k views
Probably: You should not be in the pool with any active infection -- rules against this are posted. Common sense dictates that you don't get any water -- especially pool water-- in an infected ear. I would include ocean and lake water in this rationale. Be patient -- let it get cleared up before going in . Good Luck.
Answered 6/22/2018
2.8k views
Depends: If it's an outer ear infection (otitis externa), you definitely shouldn't swim. If it's middle ear infection (otitis media), it's not likely to be an issue. The inner ear is another matter altogether since this affects your balance & orientation. Check with a local ENT to see which type of infection you have & get specific advice.
Answered 6/22/2018
2.8k views
Not recommended: it's often brought on by water that remains in your ear after swimming.
Answered 6/22/2018
2.8k views
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