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! :)
It's 5 weeks post op an the doc still can't see the repair! Had a good follow up yesterday, doc was able to remove some of the packing, however a tiny bit was stuck right to the graft site. Doc didn't want to risk damaging the delicate graft by tugging at something stuck to it. So it's another follow up in 10 days while in the meantime I try to dissolve/soften the remaining packing with Rx eardrops. Sadly, no water (still have to cover the ear in the shower) until the doc can see the graft and confirm the repair. He says this is common and that I'm on track with recovery - no delays. I say I've been out of the water too long and am dying to get back in! LOL
Bottom line, if the repair worked, I'm thrilled I did it. Just frustrating as I was so excited to get back into the water after a very long hiatus, this speed bump is making me crazy. Keep your fins crossed I get the green light in 2 weeks!
It's 5 weeks post op an the doc still can't see the repair! Had a good follow up yesterday, doc was able to remove some of the packing, however a tiny bit was stuck right to the graft site. Doc didn't want to risk damaging the delicate graft by tugging at something stuck to it. So it's another follow up in 10 days while in the meantime I try to dissolve/soften the remaining packing with Rx eardrops. Sadly, no water (still have to cover the ear in the shower) until the doc can see the graft and confirm the repair. He says this is common and that I'm on track with recovery - no delays. I say I've been out of the water too long and am dying to get back in! LOL
Bottom line, if the repair worked, I'm thrilled I did it. Just frustrating as I was so excited to get back into the water after a very long hiatus, this speed bump is making me crazy. Keep your fins crossed I get the green light in 2 weeks!
