As temperatures rise and social calendars fill up, summer becomes a time of adventure, travel, and celebration. But amid all the fun, it’s easy to overlook how vulnerable your ears can be this time of year. From water exposure to loud events, summer brings several risks that can impact your hearing, sometimes permanently. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help you protect your hearing all season long.

Let’s start with swimming. Whether you’re at the pool, lake, or ocean, spending time in the water increases the chance of developing ear infections, primarily swimmer’s ear. This condition occurs when water stays trapped in the ear canal, creating the perfect environment for bacterial growth. To reduce your risk, consider using swim plugs and drying your ears thoroughly after water activities. Avoid using cotton swabs, which can damage the delicate skin inside the ear or push water further in. For those with hearing aids, be sure to remove them before swimming and store them in a protective, moisture-free container.

Summer is also prime time for live music and large events, but loud environments can take a toll on your hearing. Concerts, festivals, and even sporting events often reach volumes well above safe listening levels. Repeated exposure to noise above 85 decibels can lead to gradual—and irreversible—hearing loss. Wearing high-quality earplugs is one of the most effective ways to enjoy the sound while limiting harm. It’s also wise to keep a safe distance from loudspeakers and take occasional breaks to rest your ears.

Of course, no summer is complete without fireworks—but while dazzling to watch, they’re extremely loud. Fireworks can exceed 150 decibels, a level that can cause immediate hearing damage. Watch from a safe distance and consider using earmuffs, especially for children or individuals who are more sensitive to sound. It’s also best to attend public shows rather than setting off fireworks yourself, as professional displays are typically safer in terms of both sound and safety.

Even when traveling, your ears may be affected by environmental changes. Pressure changes during flights, noise in busy transit areas, and elevated stress on your hearing aids can all pose challenges. Using filtered earplugs on airplanes, keeping your devices in good condition, and having backup batteries or chargers on hand will help you stay comfortable and prepared.

If you experience symptoms like ringing in the ears, muffled hearing, or discomfort after any of these activities, take them seriously. These can be early signs of hearing damage or infection.

Now is the perfect time to schedule a summer hearing check. Whether you want to be proactive or address new concerns, a professional hearing evaluation can help ensure you enjoy everything summer has to offer—without compromising your hearing.

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