Splash/swim plugs

Protecting your ears from frequent cold water or strong cold wind exposure is not necessarily something you may consider if you are a keen water sports person. However, with frequent exposure to these environments an abnormality of the ear canal can develop known as an exostosis.  Exostoses are small bony growths which protrude from the walls of the ear canal. With continued exposure to cold wind and water, exostoses will get worse. If the bony growths narrow your ear canal too much, wax and water can get trapped in the ear, which can cause infections and hearing loss.  Using custom made splash/swim plugs to avoid water & cold winds from entering the ear canals can reduce the likelihood of developing an exostosis & can also prevent already existing exostoses from growing bigger. Hear Well Clinic can make such plugs which are shaped to your ears for better protection from these elements. These also work well for people who should avoid getting water in their ears, for example those prone to frequent ear infections, perforated eardrums & mastoid cavities. They are made on site & can be taken away with you the same day. 

Custom splash / swim plugs require the shape of your ear to be taken. This is done by inserting some soft material into the ear which hardens in a few minutes. This is removed then smoothed & is your finished product ready to use. The material they are made from allows them to float in the water & there are different colours to chose from. It is not recommended to submerge your ears below the water when wearing these splash / swim plugs as the water pressure can cause them to dislodge & allow water in to the ears.