Myth Busted: Salt Water Doesn’t Always Kill Germs!

• The belief that “salt water kills bacteria” is not always true.

• Seawater has a pH between 6.0 and 8.5, while the natural earwax (cerumen) has a pH between 4 and 5.

• This pH difference can disturb the ear canal’s natural defense, making it easier for infections to develop.

• Especially on polluted beaches, seawater can become a source of infection.

 Don’t Trust Dirty Pools: Chlorine Is Not Enough

• Even chlorinated pools can pose a serious risk if they are not properly cleaned or if water circulation is poor.

• Not following pool hygiene rules, wind-blown pollutants, and poor personal hygiene of swimmers increase infection risks.

 Earwax Can Ruin Your Vacation

• Dr. Kahraman advises a check-up before going on holiday.

• If there is earwax (cerumen) in the ear, contact with water may cause it to swell, leading to pain and hearing loss.

 Pool Pranks Can Perforate the Eardrum

• Sudden head submersion or rough play in the water can cause barotrauma (pressure injury), possibly perforating the eardrum.

• Sudden drops into the water or forceful submersion can lead to serious ear injuries.

 Increased Risk in Certain People

• People who regularly clean their ears with objects or have skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis) are at higher risk of outer ear infections.

• Scratching or damaging the skin in the ear canal lowers its natural barrier.

 Affects All Ages: Outer Ear Infections Rise in Summer

• Outer ear infections can occur in all age groups but are especially common in children with narrow ear canals and in frequent swimmers.

• Symptoms include pain, itching, blockage, or discharge.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosis is done using an otoscope or endoscope.

• Treatment depends on severity and may include ear drops, acidic solutions, medicated ear wicks, or oral antibiotics.

• Not all ear blockages are caused by wax—swelling due to fluid retention can cause similar symptoms.

 Dr. Kahraman’s 7 Golden Tips for Healthy Ears:

1. Avoid swimming in dirty water.

2. Don’t let hair sprays or chemicals enter your ears.

3. After swimming, dry only the outer ear with a soft towel.

4. You can use a hairdryer on a low setting from 30 cm away.

5. Use earplugs if you have a perforated eardrum.

6. Consult a doctor if you've had ear infections or surgery.

7. If you have an outer ear infection, keep ears dry and use ear sprays.