I have a perforated eardrum and have recently started swimming again. (I know, maybe I should have repaired the eardrum before getting in the water, but there was no guarantee the repair would work). I'm currently using Mack's, but it's not working to the degree I expected. I'm still getting water in my ear - and it HURTS! Needless to say, I can't keep getting water in my ear (pain aside) I risk infection and other complications.
Since the first day, I haven't been able to recreate the "perfect seal" to keep water out. According to product label, I should also be able to get a few uses out of one earplug before requiring a new one...but no luck. Even a new one didn't work as well the second time as it did the first. Disappointing.
Can anyone recommend an earplug that's fool proof and will keep water out? Or maybe a trick to how to better use what I've got? (I am following product instructions and not forming the plug to my ear canal. I'm using it as a "cap" to the canal.) I'd appreciate the feedback! :)
Hi Dulfin,
You may be interested in our SWIMMER magazine product review of earplugs, which can be found here:
www.usmsswimmer.com/.../swimbagsnorkels2013.pdf
However, given your perforated ear drum, your best bet is probably the ones custom-molded for your ears, usually available from an ENT doc or an audiologist. Also apparently on the web: www.earplugstore.com/custom-molded-swimming-ear-plugs.html (just a quick Google search—you may want to check with your doc before purchasing).
They can be a bit pricey, but are the most effective according to folks with chronic ear problems.
Hope this helps,
Laura
Hi Dulfin,
You may be interested in our SWIMMER magazine product review of earplugs, which can be found here:
www.usmsswimmer.com/.../swimbagsnorkels2013.pdf
However, given your perforated ear drum, your best bet is probably the ones custom-molded for your ears, usually available from an ENT doc or an audiologist. Also apparently on the web: www.earplugstore.com/custom-molded-swimming-ear-plugs.html (just a quick Google search—you may want to check with your doc before purchasing).
They can be a bit pricey, but are the most effective according to folks with chronic ear problems.
Hope this helps,
Laura