Ashford Clinic Blog
Tips to keep your Ears, Nose, and Throat Healthy this Summer
Summer is just around the corner and that usually means lots of fun outdoor activities. The last thing that you want to deal with are summer illnesses though, so we’ve put together some tips to help you keep your ears, nose, and throat healthy and happy this summer!
Be careful where you swim
If you’re not familiar with swimmer’s ear, it’s a bacterial infection that takes place in the ear canal. Excess moisture combined with bacteria leads to a growth of bacteria in the ear canal, which results in discomfort and even pain.
It’s easier to avoid this by only swimming in pools or chlorinated areas, and avoiding lakes and rivers. Drying your ears out right after you get out of the water also helps, or you can use water plugs. If you do get an infection, your ENT can help.
Shower and rinse
Summer allergies can be just as bad as some spring allergies, particularly if you suffer from grass pollen allergies. To keep the itching, congestion, and sneezing minimal, shower as soon as you get home. If that’s not an option, changing clothes and then showering before bed can also help.
You can also help your sinuses by using saline rinses and sprays to flush pollens, dust, and pollutants from your nasal passages and sinus cavities. This can not only help you breathe more comfortably but also reduces the risk of sinus infections.
Control the volume
Summer is the time of year when outdoor concerts and music festivals are everywhere. While it might not seem as loud when you’re outside, you can still damage your eardrums if you're not careful. At the very least, bring some foam earplugs with you. Or, if concerts are a frequent form of entertainment that you enjoy, consider investing in custom earplugs that are molded to your ear canal.
Watch those drinks
Alcohol is a common part of many summer activities, as we well know. And while the occasional drink likely won’t hurt you it is a good idea to consider limiting how much you drink. In addition to drying out your body (including sinus tissues!) alcohol can damage your thyroid, leading to a host of health issues. Instead, increase your water intake. It’s easy to get dehydrated in the heat, and proper hydration is important to your overall health.
If you do experience ear, nose, or throat issues this summer, don't worry - Ashford ENT is here to help. You can call us at 706-248-6860 to make an appointment, and get relief.
