Don’t let swimmer’s ear derail your training

Nothing can mess up your swim training like an ear infection. The good news though? It’s easily avoided – and here’s how. 

Sponsored: For triathletes, swim training is all about endurance, efficiency and speed. But one small detail often gets overlooked: your ears. An outer ear infection – commonly known as swimmer’s ear – can quickly derail your training, bringing pain, irritation and time out of the water.

The good news? With a few simple habits, ear care can become just another part of your performance routine.

What is swimmer’s ear?

Swimmer’s ear (otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal. The term ‘otitis’ simply means inflammation of the ear. It typically develops when water becomes trapped in the ear after swimming, showering or sweating, creating a warm, moist environment where bacteria thrive.

Who’s at risk?

If you’re regularly in the pool or open water, you’re more susceptible. While water often drains naturally trapped moisture can weaken the ear’s protective wax barrier, allowing bacteria to grow. 

It’s not just swimming either. Sweat from training sessions or moisture trapped by earbuds can also contribute and even scratching the ear when it feels itchy or blocked can damage delicate skin and increase infection risk.

Signs to watch for 

Look out for the following ear symptoms:

• Itching, irritation or inflammation in the ear canal

• Redness and swelling

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