This is an infection of the outer ear canal typically caused by bacteria thriving in trapped moisture. It often involves swelling of the canal, which leads to muffled hearing.

The most frequent cause is . When you submerge your head, water molecules can enter the ear canal and stick together due to surface tension, creating a seal (meniscus) that prevents the water from draining. This physical barrier blocks sound waves from reaching your eardrum, resulting in a "plugged" or muffled feeling. Other common causes include:

By following these recommendations, individuals can enjoy swimming while minimizing the risk of muffled hearing and related complications.