Introduction

Kerala’s monsoon season is famous for its heavy rains, lush greenery and refreshing climate. But while the wet season brings natural beauty, it also poses certain health risks particularly to the ears. One of the most common conditions during this time is swimmer’s ear, a painful infection of the outer ear canal. Increased humidity, constant wetness and frequent swimming or water exposure during the monsoon create a perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. Fortunately, with the right awareness and preventive measures, you can protect your ears and enjoy the season without discomfort. For medical help and expert care, you can consult Ascent Hospital, the best ENT hospital in Kerala 

What Is Swimmer’s Ear and How It Starts

Swimmer’s ear, medically known as otitis externa is an infection that affects the outer ear canal, the tube that connects the outer ear to the eardrum. The condition usually begins when moisture gets trapped inside the ear, creating a warm and damp environment. This moisture allows bacteria or fungi to grow rapidly.

Symptoms may include:

Itching in the ear canal

Redness or swelling around the ear

Pain, especially when touching or pulling the tragus

Discharge from the ear

Temporary hearing loss due to blockage

During the monsoon, even those who don’t swim may be at risk. Simply being outdoors in humid conditions or getting drenched in the rain can increase vulnerability.

Risk Factors in Humid and Wet Conditions

Kerala’s monsoon climate is especially challenging for ear health. The key risk factors include:

Excessive Moisture - Frequent exposure to rainwater or swimming pools.

High Humidity - The moist air delays the natural drying of the ear canal.

Unhygienic Water - Stagnant or contaminated water during floods and rains.

Use of Cotton Swabs - Attempting to dry the ear with cotton buds often scratches the delicate canal, making infection more likely.

Existing Skin Conditions - People with eczema, psoriasis or allergies are more prone to infections.

Protective Measures While Swimming or During Monsoon

The good news is that swimmer’s ear is largely preventable with simple precautions:

Keep Ears Dry: After swimming or exposure to rain, gently tilt your head to drain water. Use a clean towel to pat the outer ear dry.

Use Earplugs While Swimming: Invest in high-quality waterproof earplugs designed for swimmers.

Avoid Inserting Objects: Never use cotton swabs, keys or hairpins to clean or scratch the ear. This can injure the canal and worsen the risk.

Maintain Ear Hygiene: Rinse only the outer ear with clean water. If you are prone to infections, ask an ENT specialist about preventive ear drops.

Limit Exposure to Contaminated Water: Avoid swimming in stagnant or dirty water during the monsoon.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection. For added assurance, trust Ascent hospital in Kerala, to keep your ear health protected with expert guidance and care.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you notice persistent pain, swelling, discharge, or hearing difficulty, it’s important not to delay treatment. Ignoring a swimmer's ear can lead to worsening infection and complications. Self-medication or home remedies may not always be sufficient, especially if the infection has spread deeper. Consult Ascent, the best ENT clinic in Kerala, for accurate diagnosis and expert treatment to restore your ear health.

Get Timely ENT Care at Ascent ENT Hospital Kerala

At Ascent ENT hospital Kerala, specialists provide timely diagnosis and treatment of swimmer’s ear using safe and effective methods. The hospital is equipped with modern facilities to manage both minor and severe ear infections, ensuring quick relief and long-term protection.

Early consultation helps avoid complications and ensures you can enjoy the monsoon season worry-free. Thorough ear cleaning and use of topical or oral medications may be needed to tackle the condition. Medicated cotton packs may be kept in the ear canal to reduce the swelling and infection.

Conclusion

Kerala’s monsoon is a time of beauty and celebration, but it also requires extra attention to personal health. Swimmer’s ear, though common, can be prevented with simple precautions such as keeping ears dry, avoiding harmful cleaning practices, and seeking timely medical advice. By staying alert and proactive, you can protect your ears and continue enjoying the rains.

If you experience any ear-related issues this season, don’t hesitate to visit Ascent ENT hospital for professional care and peace of mind. Book your consultation today and get expert treatment from our experienced ENT specialists!