Swimmers: Stay Healthy in and Out of the Water
Whether you swim for fun, fitness, or work, water brings a few common health problems. The good news: most are easy to prevent with a few simple habits and the right products. This page focuses on ear care, skin irritations, nose and throat tips, and when you should see a doctor.
Ear problems are the headline issue for swimmers. Otitis externa, or "swimmer's ear," happens when water traps bacteria in the ear canal, causing pain, itching, and discharge. You can lower the risk by drying ears well after swimming, using a towel and tilting your head to let water drain. Soft hair dryer use at low heat for a few seconds helps. Earplugs made for swimmers can block water entirely, but fit matters—try a few styles until they feel snug and comfortable.
Quick tips for preventing swimmer’s ear
Use over-the-counter drying drops after a swim if your ears feel wet. Avoid cotton swabs; they push wax and bacteria deeper. If you have eczema or a perforated eardrum, skip drops without a doctor’s okay. If your ear starts to hurt, becomes red, or you notice discharge or fever, see a healthcare provider—antibiotic ear drops are often needed.
Skin issues are next. Chlorine can dry and irritate skin, while fresh-water ponds and lakes can cause rashes from plants or microbes. Rinse off under a shower after swimming and apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in moisture. For itchy rashes after lake or ocean swims, cool compresses and antihistamine tablets can reduce symptoms. If blisters or spreading redness appears, contact your doctor—topical creams or prescription meds may be necessary.
Other common swimmer health tips
Nasal and sinus irritation can happen from swallowing or inhaling water. Avoid diving into unknown waters and use nose clips if you’re sensitive. If you get frequent sinus infections after swimming, talk to your doctor about rinsing your nose with saline after sessions.
Keep cuts and scrapes covered. Even small wounds let bacteria in, and pool or open-water bacteria can infect them. Clean any skin break with soap and water, then apply a breathable bandage until healed. For persistent redness, warmth, or pus, seek medical attention—oral antibiotics might be required.
Finally, think about vaccinations and safety. Make sure tetanus shots are up to date if you swim in natural waters where cuts are possible. If you rely on swimming for exercise, vary your routine so overuse injuries don’t sneak up on you. Goggles and a cap reduce eye and hair damage from chlorine, and rinse both after use.
If you’re unsure about a product or symptom, a pharmacist or primary care doctor can steer you to safe over-the-counter options or prescriptions. With basic care and a few smart habits, swimmers can enjoy the water without the usual aches and infections.
See a doctor if swelling, high fever, severe pain, hearing loss, or balance problems appear. Immediate care matters for deep infections. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen help short-term, but avoid self-prescribing antibiotics without guidance and advice.
