It’s easy to enjoy the feelings of excitement, new memories, and experiences when playing sports and traveling. However, these activities attract some risks that people might overlook, especially in the aspect of ear health. From a sudden blow on the soccer field to the sudden pressure changes during a long flight, the ears are pretty vulnerable.
But protecting the ears doesn’t take away the fun of the moment. There are some practical steps that one can take to stay active or go on the move and, at the same time, protect their ears.
Understanding Common Ear Injuries in Sports
Athletes sometimes find themselves in situations that affect their ears, especially when engaging in contact sports like rugby, wrestling, and martial arts. A hard hit or constant friction on the ear can lead to swelling, a condition known as cauliflower ear. Over time, this can cause permanent changes in the ear shape or further hearing issues.
Water sports also come with their own challenges. Swimming or surfing in untreated water can cause the ear to be vulnerable to bacteria, eventually causing infections. Being exposed to cold and wind can cause exostosis, a condition that happens when the bone grows in the ear canal. This is sometimes called surfer’s ear.
How Air Pressure During Travel Affects the Ears
Long flights or quick altitude changes can be very stressful for the ears to handle. There should be a balance between the pressure in the middle ear and the outside environment, but a sudden change in pressure causes the eardrum to be stretched and uncomfortable. The ears might then pop during takeoff and landing.
The eustachian tubes in the ear cause pressure to be equal in the ear, so if they’re not opening properly, they lead to pain, muffled hearing or a ruptured eardrum. Going on a plane with congestion or allergies will make the feeling worse, as swelling can block the tube and stop it from working well.
Simple Habits That Help Keep Ears Safe
It might seem ear injuries are difficult to avoid, but minor changes in daily habits make a major difference. Wearing helmets and proper headgear is an effective way to prevent injuries during cycling or a contact sport. They can shield the ears from direct trauma, aside from protecting the skull.
For activities in or around water, using swim plugs can lower the chances of getting an infection by keeping water out of the ear canal. Drying the ears well after swimming or showering stops bacteria from growing, especially with trapped moisture.
Easing Pressure Changes When Traveling
Taking care of ears during flights or long drives where there are changing altitudes shouldn’t be complicated. Consider chewing gum or constantly swallowing to open the eustachian tubes and make it easier for the ears to adjust to the changing pressure.
For people with congestion, use a nasal spray recommended by a hearing health professional before takeoff. This reduces any form of swelling in the nasal passage and helps the ears function normally. Staying awake during takeoff and landing also keeps the pressure equalized.
When to Seek Help After an Injury or Discomfort
Minor discomfort in the ear will clear up in a few hours without the need for a hearing health professional. But if the pain becomes intense, hearing gets worse, or fluid drains out of the ear, it’s best to get checked out as quickly as possible.
Any sports injury that causes swelling, bruising, or bleeding in the ear requires prompt care so that there is no permanent damage. Infections can get worse if they’re left untreated and then spread beyond the ear to cause severe health problems. Early treatment leads to a faster recovery and reduces the chances of any complications.
Prioritizing Ear Health Before the Next Adventure
When going to a big game or boarding a flight, no one thinks about protecting their ears, but it is very important. With some simple precautions like using protective gear, staying aware of noise levels, and keeping the ears dry and clean, there’s a low chance of ear injury.
Anyone with a history of ear problems or who usually has discomfort while traveling can check in with a hearing health professional before their next trip or sports season. By preparing ahead, one can focus on the adventure ahead instead of worrying about ear pain or hearing loss.