Ask The Audiologist – June 2025

Since it’s soon to be summer, I will be swimming frequently. What is the best way to prevent ear infections?

A. Properly drying your ears after being in the water is crucial to prevent ear infections. Here are some steps to follow:

1: Use Earplugs: Utilizing earplugs while swimming can prevent water from entering your ear canals and becoming trapped. There are many variations of earplugs that can be bought in stores. At Ambrose Hearing Center, we make custom ear plugs that are fit specifically to your ears. They can be utilized while swimming to ensure that water stays out of your ear canals.

2: Gently Tilt Your Head: Tilt your head to the side to allow any water that may have entered your ears to drain out naturally. Stay in this position for a few moments to ensure most of the water drains.

3: Use a Towel: Gently pat the outer ear with a clean, dry towel to help absorb any remaining moisture. Avoid inserting the towel or any other objects into the ear canal as this can cause damage.

4: Use a Hairdryer: Set your hairdryer to the lowest heat and speed settings. Hold it about arm’s length away from your ear and gently blow warm air into the ear canal. Keep the dryer moving and avoid placing it too close to your ear to prevent burns.

Remember, it’s essential to be gentle and cautious when drying your ears to avoid any damage. If you experience persistent discomfort, pain, or notice any drainage from your ears after drying, it’s advisable to seek medical attention from an audiologist or healthcare professional. They can provide further guidance and treatment if needed.

I’m hesitant to start the process of having my hearing checked. Where do I begin, and if I were to get a hearing aid, would I hear normally again?

A. If you feel that your ability to hear is starting to decline, your first step would be to schedule a hearing evaluation with an audiologist. In recent years, certain Medicare Advantage plans have started covering hearing tests and a portion of hearing aids. It is best to contact your insurance provider to determine an audiologist that is in your network. At your initial appointment, an audiologist will ask you questions related to your health and hearing abilities. A hearing test will be conducted, and the audiologist will go over the results with you. At this point, it will be determined if you are ready for hearing aids and what technology level and style will best fit your daily needs.

When dealing with an age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, the best treatment option is a hearing aid. A hearing aid cannot replicate the natural process of hearing and will not restore your hearing to normal; however, it can greatly improve the clarity of speech. Fitting a hearing aid is not a one-size-fits-all method. It is a very individualized process that is based off the results of your hearing test.  Not only will a hearing aid improve upon the clarity of speech; but, more importantly, it can help restore your quality of life by allowing you to interact and participate in activities that could be challenging with a hearing impairment.

If you are interested in having custom ear plugs made or have additional questions related to hearing please call us at (570) 391-5216.