Open water swimming is a year-round sport, but if you’ve taken a swim during the depth of winter, you might have experienced ear pain.

This common issue is felt by even the most experienced of swimmers and can deter even the most dedicated from enjoying their time in the water.

Let’s explore the reasons behind this seasonal ear pain and how to manage it.

Why your ears hurt during winter swimming: the cold water effect 

The primary culprit behind ear pain during winter swimming is the cold water, which can be hard to avoid, considering the water is cold during winter. 

When your ears are exposed to low temperatures, the blood vessels constrict, reducing blood flow to the area. This constriction can lead to a sensation of pain or discomfort as the tissues in your ear canal become stressed by the sudden temperature drop.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to avoid the pain other than stop swimming in cold water, which is not an option for many die-hard swimmers. 

There are ways you can try to reduce the pain, however. These include wearing earplugs to stop the cold water from entering your ear canal and wearing a swim cap that covers your ears. 

Other reasons your ears hurt during winter swimming

While the cold water effect is the primary reason for many swimmers’ sore ears during winter swimming, there are other reasons why your ears can hurt during winter swimming. These include: 

Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an inflammation of the outer ear canal that can be exacerbated by cold water. 

While swimmer’s ear can happen at any time during the year, the cold can dry out the skin inside your ear canal, making it more susceptible to irritation and infection. 

Symptoms of a swimmer’s ear include itching, redness, and a feeling of fullness in the ear, which can turn into pain if left untreated.

Ear Infections

Similar to swimmer’s ear, ear infections can happen at any time during the year; they don’t necessarily have to be during winter.

The winter months do bring an increased risk of ear infections, as cold weather weakens the immune system, making it easier for bacteria or fungi to take hold.

If water gets trapped in your ear canal, it creates a moist environment where pathogens can thrive. This can lead to painful infections, which can lead to time out of the water.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Your eustachian tubes, which connect your middle ear to the back of the nose, help regulate ear pressure and drain fluids. 

Cold weather and water can cause these tubes to function less effectively, leading to pressure imbalances and discomfort. 

This means swimming in cold water exacerbates this issue, as the rapid temperature change can cause the tubes to contract, leading to pain and a feeling of fullness.

How to prevent ear pain while swimming in winter

While there’s no one magic trick that can stop ear pain while swimming in winter, there are many methods that can help reduce ear pain and make that morning open water swim more enjoyable. 

1. Wear ear protection

Using earplugs designed for swimming can help keep water out of your ears and protect them from the cold. 

A swim cap that covers your ears can also provide an additional layer of insulation, helping to reduce any ear pain or discomfort.

2. Dry your ears thoroughly

After swimming, make sure to dry your ears completely to help reduce the chance of infection. 

A good way to do this is by tilting your head to each side to let the water drain. You can also use a soft towel or a hairdryer on a low, cool setting to remove any remaining moisture.

3. Use ear drops

Over-the-counter ear drops can help dry out any water trapped in your ear canal and reduce the risk of infection. 

Some drops can also contain ingredients that can soothe irritated skin caused by the cold weather.

4. Avoid swimming when sick

If you have a cold or any other upper respiratory infection, it’s best to avoid swimming. 

Congestion can affect your eustachian tubes and increase the risk of ear pain and infections, especially in cold water during winter.

Note: If you experience persistent ear pain while swimming, it’s essential to consult a doctor. They can diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment, whether it’s medication for an infection or advice on managing eustachian tube dysfunction. This can help make your swimming experience more enjoyable and pain-free.