Has anyone else suffered with ear problems since starting running?

[CareBear43]

I took up C25K in November (Yes November I was taking my time repeating weeks but enjoying it at the same time). Around December I started to notice one ear was slightly muffled / feeling blocked and very clicky. It got worse and I figured it was an ear infection so got some antibiotics from the doctor around Feb. It seemed to clear up for a couple of weeks. But then gradually started to come back. I’ve had 3 lots of antibiotics since then and each time it seems to get better and then come back. I continued running throughout, although this time is that I haven’t run since I finished my last course, it’s been about a month and it still seems fine. I’m a bit nervous about running again because I’d rather the problem didn’t come back, I think my doctor is getting irritated with me phoning for the same problem. I have got a referral to ENT but I’m NHS and there’s a huge waiting list, don’t think I’ll be seen anytime soon.

I’m a mouth breather when I’m running and I do find that I get a bit more nasally congested when I’m running.

Are ear problems a thing with runners? I’m not sure if it’s just a coincidence that my problem has gone away since I stopped running, but I would like to get back to it.

[Beachcomber66 Graduate]

The only thing which has given me repeat ear infections is hearing aids. I ensure that they cleaned with an antiseptic wipe and have had no trouble for a long time. Maybe your headphones need the same treatment? Otherwise it is hard to see a possible link.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Beachcomber66]

Good point.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

It is not an issue that I remember seeing on this forum over the last eight years, so I don't think it could be classified as a common runner's complaint.

Has your GP looked in your ear to see if it is a wax build up?

[CareBear43]

Yes doc had looked at my ear, not particularly waxy, eardrum was a bit red hence antibiotics. Said it was likely to be more a Eustachian tube problem (drainage tube between ear and throat) becoming blocked.

Thanks Beachcomber66, think I’ll try running without earphones, that’s a very good point.

[Beachcomber66 Graduate]

I do get more snuffly sometimes when I run; there are plenty of pollens about on my woodland trails, but they have never translated into ear infections of any kind. Hope you get your appointment soon.