Can You Swim With Ear Tubes? What Parents Need to Know

Ear infections are a common issue for children, which may require medical interventions such as ear tubes to address chronic problems. For parents of children with ear tubes, a key question generally arises: can you swim with tubes in your ear? Parents should also know whether learning how to swim at a swim school is safe for their child with ear tubes.

What are Ear Tubes and Why are they Needed?

Ear tubes, also known as tympanostomy tubes, are small cylindrical devices inserted into the eardrum. They are designed to alleviate recurrent ear infections or persistent fluid buildup in the middle ear, conditions that can impair hearing and affect speech development. Ear tubes create a small opening in the eardrum to allow for ventilation and fluid drainage.

While proper ear tube placement is effective in reducing infections, their presence raises questions about water exposure. Many parents worry that swimming or bathing could allow water to enter the middle ear through the tubes, potentially leading to infections or complications.

Can Children Swim With Ear Tubes?

The short answer is yes, children can swim with ear tubes, but certain precautions are necessary. Most healthcare professionals agree that casual swimming in chlorinated pools is generally safe, as chlorine helps prevent bacterial growth. However, the risk of water entering the middle ear depends on various factors, including the type of water and the child's activity level.

Factors to Consider When Swimming With Ear Tubes

Type of Water

• Chlorinated Pools: Swimming in a clean, chlorinated pool is usually safe. Chlorine acts as a disinfectant, minimizing the risk of infections.
• Lakes and Oceans: Can a child swim in these environments with ear tubes? There is a higher risk due to the presence of microorganisms, so swimming in such waters requires extra precautions, such as ear protection.
• Baths and Hot Tubs: Submerging the head in bathwater or hot tubs can allow soapy or contaminated water to enter the tubes, increasing the risk of infection.

Activity Level

• Diving and Jumping: High-impact activities like diving or jumping into the water can force water into the ears, raising the likelihood of complications.
• Submersion Depth: The deeper a child goes underwater, the greater the water pressure, which can force water into the ear tubes.

Age and Comfort Level

Younger children with chronic ear infections or multiple ear infections may need more supervision to ensure they adhere to safety measures. Children who are comfortable in the water may be less likely to panic and submerge their heads unpredictably.

Precautions for Swimming With Ear Tubes

Use of Earplugs

• Custom Earplugs: Custom-fitted earplugs provide the best protection and comfort for children with ear tubes. These are made to fit snugly and prevent water from entering the ears.
• Over-the-Counter Earplugs: While less effective than custom options, over-the-counter plugs may still provide protection for a swimmer’s ear, particularly for casual swimming.

Swim Caps or Headbands

Pairing earplugs with a swim cap or neoprene headband offers an added layer of protection, ensuring the plugs stay securely in place during activities.

Dry Ears After Swimming

After swimming, gently dry the ears with a towel or use a hairdryer on a low, cool setting to ensure no residual moisture remains in the ear canal.

Consult Your ENT Specialist

Always follow your child’s ENT specialist’s advice. Some children may require stricter precautions or antibiotic ear drops based on their individual medical history.

Signs of Complications to Watch For

Even with precautions, complications can occasionally arise. Parents should monitor their child for signs of discomfort or infection after swimming, such as:

• Persistent ear pain or pressure
• Drainage of fluid or pus from the ear
• Hearing changes or difficulty

If any of these symptoms occur, consult your child’s ENT specialist promptly.

Benefits of Swimming for Children With Ear Tubes

Despite the added precautions, swimming is a highly beneficial activity for children with repeat ear infections or frequent ear infections who have ear tubes. It enhances physical fitness, builds confidence, and improves motor skills. With proper safety measures, children with ear tubes can enjoy swimming just like their peers. 

Notably, in many cases, ear tubes fall out naturally as a child’s eardrum heals, allowing them to continue swimming without additional precautions unless advised otherwise by a doctor.

FAQs Related to Children Swimming with Ear Tubes

Can my child participate in competitive swimming with ear tubes?

Yes, children with ear tubes can participate in competitive swimming with proper precautions. For high-intensity activities, custom-fitted earplugs and swim caps are essential to prevent water entry during starts, turns, and prolonged submersion. It's also important to have regular follow-ups with an ENT specialist to monitor ear health during the swim season.

Are there any specific swim training techniques or programs designed for children with ear tubes?

While no formal swim programs are specifically designed for children with ear tubes, some swim schools are experienced in accommodating children with medical needs. Programs that emphasize controlled breathing, face-above-water strokes, and gradual submersion can be beneficial. Parents should inform instructors about the ear tubes so lessons can be adjusted accordingly.

Can ear tubes affect how my child equalizes ear pressure while swimming underwater?

Yes, ear tubes can slightly alter how pressure equalization occurs, as they create a small opening in the eardrum. However, this is typically not a significant concern unless the child is swimming at greater depths where water pressure is higher. The natural Eustachian tube helps to balance the pressure in the middle ear space with the outside pressure. For children participating in scuba diving or similar activities, a consultation with an ENT specialist is essential.

Are waterproof headphones safe for children with ear tubes?

Waterproof headphones can be used by children with ear tubes, particularly if they want to listen to music or audiobooks while swimming. However, the headphones should be paired with protective earplugs to prevent water from entering the tubes. Ensure the headphones do not create additional pressure on the ear canal or dislodge the earplugs.

How can I teach my child to handle ear protection independently?

Teaching your child to handle ear protection involves patience and practice. Start by showing them how to insert earplugs correctly and use a swim cap to secure them. Create a pre-swim checklist they can follow as they grow older, reinforcing the importance of protecting their ears. Role-playing and making it a fun activity can help younger children feel more confident.

Are there advanced earplugs or devices for children who frequently swim in non-chlorinated waters?

Yes, advanced earplugs with antimicrobial coatings or built-in filters are available. These are particularly useful for children swimming in lakes, rivers, or oceans, where the risk of bacterial exposure to the inner or outer ear drum and future ear infections is higher. Consult the child’s doctor for recommendations related to your child’s specific needs.

Swimming Lessons for Children With Ear Tubes

Dedicated swim schools have experience working with children who have medical needs and can adjust lessons accordingly. Ear tubes do not prevent children from enjoying swimming, but it is important to protect their ears to avoid complications.

Can children who have undergone ear tube surgery safely participate in swim lessons at a swim school?

Yes, children who have undergone ear tube surgery can safely participate in swim lessons at a swim school. It is essential to take precautions to prevent water from entering the ears, which could lead to ear infection. Using well-fitted earplugs or a swim cap designed to keep water out is highly recommended. A consultation with your child’s ENT specialist before starting swim lessons can provide further guidance based on your child’s specific needs. 

Will wearing earplugs affect my child’s ability to hear the instructor during swim lessons?

High-quality ear plugs, especially custom-fitted ones, are designed to reduce water entry without completely blocking sound. While some slight muffling may occur, most children can still hear instructions clearly. If hearing becomes a challenge, instructors can use visual cues or practice closer communication to ensure effective teaching.

Tips for Safe Swimming Lessons

• Use Waterproof Earplugs: Custom-fitted or high-quality earplugs prevent water from entering the ear canal, reducing the risk of infection.
• Swim Caps: Pair earplugs with snug swim caps for added protection.
• Communicate with Instructors: Inform the swim school about your child’s ear tubes so they can provide personalized guidance.

Benefits of Swim Schools for Children with Ear Tubes

• Controlled Environment: Professional swim schools maintain clean and monitored pools, lowering the risk of exposure to bacteria.
• Experienced Instructors: Instructors are trained to help children safely learn skills like floating, kicking, and breath control without unnecessary head submersion.
• Building Confidence: With the right precautions, children can focus on mastering swimming skills while staying safe.

At Ocaquatics, our instructors are experienced in accommodating children with medical conditions like ear tubes. We focus on creating a safer and enjoyable environment tailored to each swimmer’s needs.



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