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Frequently Asked Questions

Otinova

Swimmer’s ear is caused by water remaining in the ear canal after showering, bathing, diving and, of course, swimming. It often occurs in people who swim a lot or spend time in warm, humid environments. Symptoms may include:

  1. Ear pain
  2. A damp feeling in the ear
  3. A lot of earwax
  4. Itching

Ear infection or inflammation of the ear canal, also known as otitis externa, is an inflammation of the skin in the ear canal. The ear canal runs from the outer ear to the eardrum. This can be caused by water in the ear and by inserting cotton buds or other objects into the ear, among other things.

For more information, see
https://www.thuisarts.nl/ontsteking-van-gehoorgang/ik-heb-ontsteking-van-gehoorgang

Otinova is a safe and effective ear spray for the symptoms of ear infection, also known as inflammation of the ear canal or otitis externa. Otinova is scientifically proven. It is an acidic solution (pH 3-4 – low pH) that has a characteristic odour. The odour usually disappears quickly after use.

If the ear canal is inflamed and/or painful, Otinova may sting slightly immediately after spraying. The pain usually disappears relatively quickly. If you experience persistent pain, you should contact your doctor or general practitioner. Otinova works locally as an astringent (drying) agent with an antifungal effect. The spray relieves symptoms within 24 hours and is free from antibiotics and steroids.

The effect is usually relatively quick, but if you do not feel significantly better after 1-3 days, you should consult your doctor or general practitioner.

Otinova is suitable for people aged 5 years and older who:

  • Swim, shower, or bathe regularly
  • Frequently use earphones or hearing aids
  • Travel to warm and humid climates
  • Have a history with swimmer’s ear

No specific studies have been conducted in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and therefore Otinova should be used with caution. To be absolutely sure, you should avoid using Otinova during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Otinova contains Burow’s solution.

Burow’s solution has been used for a long time and is described in the pharmacopoeia. The use, effectiveness and safety of Burow’s solution have been documented in various clinical studies. We are not aware of any reports of side effects in pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. The likelihood of Otinova affecting foetal development or passing into breast milk is considered to be very small.

Spray once or twice into the ear canal, in the morning and in the evening. Tilt your head to one side after spraying so that the liquid can take effect properly. The treatment lasts for a maximum of 7 days. If there is no improvement after 1-3 days, contact your doctor or general practitioner.

Otinova can be used ‘intermittently’, i.e. during periods of increased risk of ear canal inflammation, such as swimming and water sports holidays. If you do not feel significantly better after 1-3 days of treatment, you should contact your doctor or general practitioner. Salt deposits and severe drying of the ear canal may occur with overdose and/or prolonged use. Do not use Otinova for more than 7 consecutive days.

Each dose of spray contains 0.1 ml, and one bottle of Otinova contains 150 doses. Once opened, the spray can be used for 6 months, but never beyond the expiry date.

Salt crystals form when the Otinova solution evaporates. The crystals may feel a little “crunchy,” but they are completely harmless. Troublesome salt deposits in the ear canal can occur with overuse and/or prolonged use. They can also form on the spray nozzle. You can remove these with a damp, lint-free cloth.

Otinova has a drying and antifungal effect and does not contain antibiotics or steroids. In addition, the ear spray is available without a prescription. Otinova can therefore often be used instead of prescription ear preparations to treat the symptoms of ear canal inflammation. Otinova treats the irritated skin in the ear canal, relieving the pain, unlike sprays or drops, for example, which numb the pain but do not remove the cause.

Yes, Otinova can be used as a preventive measure before showering or swimming to prevent swimmer’s ear.

Otovent

Glue ear is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the middle ear due to a blockage in the Eustachian tube. Otovent is a non-medicinal medical device designed to gently compensate for negative pressure in the middle ear. The special balloon, which is inflated via the nose, removes this blockage and drains the fluid.

* See https://www.thuisarts.nl/slijmoor/mijn-kind-heeft-slijmoor for more information.

Yes, Otovent is a safe and clinically proven method, suitable for use in people aged 3 years and older.
It is important that treatment in children always takes place under adult supervision. It is recommended that an adult try Otovent themselves first, before the child starts treatment.

Always read the IFU before use.

Otovent can be used from the age of 3, including by adults. The product complies with all medical safety requirements (MDR). In rare cases, mild side effects such as earache or dizziness may occur. Always read the IFU before use.

It may take a few attempts before you become accustomed to and comfortable with using the product and technique. It is helpful if an adult can try Otovent first and then describe the sensation to the child. When used correctly, the user will hear sounds—clicking or crackling—in the ear.

Some patients may experience discomfort in the ear during inflation. This initial sensation will diminish during subsequent inflation and is an indication that the procedure is working properly.

  • If you are allergic to latex or latex products, consult your doctor or general practitioner before use. The balloons contain latex.
  • During a cold. Use Otovent after a cold, never during.
  • If you regularly suffer from minor nosebleeds, any manipulation of the nose, such as blowing your nose or blowing up balloons, can trigger a nosebleed. This condition is usually harmless.
  • If you experience allergic symptoms such as skin rash, itching, breathing difficulties or swelling, stop the treatment and consult your doctor or general practitioner.
  • If you have undergone sinus surgery, consult your doctor before using Otovent. Using Otovent after sinus surgery may increase the risk of pneumocephalus.
  • If you have a perforated eardrum.
  • If you experience a perforated eardrum, severe headache, dizziness, sensitivity to light and/or nausea in connection with the use of Otovent, stop treatment immediately and consult your doctor or general practitioner.
  • Never use toy balloons or balloons that are not included in the Otovent packaging when performing your Otovent treatment. Only Otovent balloons may be used in combination with medical devices bearing the CE mark.
  • If you have an upper respiratory tract infection.
  • If you have an ear infection.

Each Otovent balloon can be used up to 20 times. The lightweight packaging makes the product ideal for taking with you on trips or holidays to treat ear problems. The balloons cannot be cleaned.

If necessary, use a mild detergent and plain tap water.

When not in use, the nose piece and balloons should be stored away from light, preferably in the box in which they were delivered.

As soon as possible after the diagnosis of sticky ear/mucous ear has been made. Early intervention gives the best results.

It may take a few tries before you learn how to use Otovent correctly. Gently stretching the balloon before using it for the first time will make it easier to inflate.

Otovent should not be used in cases of colds, ear infections, or upper respiratory tract infections. Otovent has been extensively tested and clinically tested to ensure that the product is safe.

If the pressure difference is not equalized by opening the Eustachian tube, fluid can accumulate behind the eardrum. This is glue ear, also known as mucus ear. See alsohttps://www.thuisarts.nl/slijmoor/mijn-kind-heeft-slijmoor

PLEASE NOTE: Glue ear is not the same as otitis media (see https://www.thuisarts.nl/loopoor/mijn-kind-heeft-loopoor). Otitis media involves a small hole in the eardrum. In this case, if there is a hole in the eardrum, Otovent should not be used.

Otovent is a safe method. In rare cases, temporary side effects may occur, such as earache, headache, dizziness, or nosebleeds.

Otovent should not be used if you or your child has a cold, ear infection, or upper respiratory tract infection.

Otovent can be used to equalize middle ear pressure before and after a flight. It can also be used during the flight if pressure differences are felt in the ears.

The Otovent app makes keeping track of your Otovent use easier than ever. Thanks to the user-friendly app, you can effortlessly monitor the progress of your treatment and receive handy reminders.

The Otovent app makes using Otovent even more appealing and enjoyable for both children and adults. With the app, you can easily mark each time you inflate an Otovent balloon and receive reminders via notifications, so you never miss a session. The Otovent app also offers detailed instructions for using Otovent and a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQ).

For parents, we have included a special feature in the app called Otopia. This is a game set in a land full of inhabitants called Otopians, who are happy to help you and your child find new items for your map. As you explore Otopia, you will receive rewards and track your progress, making it an engaging and fun way to encourage your child to use Otovent.

Yes, Otovent can be used by divers. It is a tool that helps train pressure regulation in the middle ear, which is important for safe diving. Otovent helps improve equalization. Divers with persistent problems with equalization or ear pain are advised to discuss this with a diving doctor or ENT specialist.

Ear Band-Its & Putty Buddies

The Ear Band-It is a headband designed by an ENT specialist to keep swimming earplugs such as Putty Buddies in place during water activities. The band helps prevent water from entering the ears and is suitable for children with ear tubes and for adults. The product is made of 3 millimetre thick neoprene, which is resistant to water and temperature changes. The closure at the back is adjustable. The Ear Band-It is available in blue, purple, pink, turquoise and black (when worn inside out). Sizes are small for children up to 18 months with a head circumference of 42 to 47 centimetres, medium for children aged 2 to 7 with a head circumference of 47 to 52 centimetres, and large for people aged 8 and above with a head circumference of 52 to 61 centimetres. If you are unsure about the size, we recommend choosing the larger option.

To find out which size fits you best, please refer to the package leaflet.

If you are unsure about the size, we recommend choosing a size larger.

Putty Buddies are silicone earplugs with a soft and sticky texture that ensure a good fit and stay in place during water activities. They are recommended by doctors for children with ear tubes and to prevent swimmer’s ear. Each pair can be used for up to two weeks. The earplugs block water and are suitable for children and adults. They stay in place better when used in combination with the Ear Band-It headband. Putty Buddies are available in blue, purple, petrol, red and pink. They are an alternative to custom-made earplugs and are intended for people who want to keep water out of their ears.

The combination of Putty Buddies and Ear Band-It offers the best protection during water activities. The swimmer’s headband ensures that the earplugs stay perfectly in place, resulting in maximum safety and the best possible hearing protection.

Unlike the Ear Band-It and Ear Band-It ULTRA, there are clear differences in material, thickness and design. The standard swimmer’s headband is made of 3 mm neoprene, while the ULTRA is made of 4.5 mm neoprene, which provides extra strength and comfort.

The standard version is available in sizes S, M and L, while the ULTRA is available in M and L. In addition, the ULTRA has a non-slip texture and is available in cheerful prints such as Princesses and Surf Dino.

The standard ones do not have a print, but come in blue, purple, pink and turquoise. Both swimming headbands can be worn inside out. The inside is black.

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber material known for its water resistance, flexibility, and durability. It is often used in wetsuits, medical braces, and sports accessories. In the Ear Band-It, neoprene provides a comfortable and secure fit that keeps water out.

You fasten the Ear Band-It by securing the Velcro fastener firmly at the back of the head, so that the band stays securely over the ears. If you want to use the black side, simply turn the band inside out and then put the Ear Band-It on your head.

Shipping Returns

Orders are delivered within 1-3 business days in the Netherlands.

You can receive your package within 1-3 business days via PostNL or DHL.

Click here to read how to return an item.

Once we have received your return in good order, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

You must drop off your return package at a PostNL location. We will arrange the return label with our return address. Use the original packaging to pack the product securely. Don’t forget to remove or cover the old label.

No, the products must not have been used. Only unused products in their original packaging will be accepted for return.

Please contact info@voorjeoor.nl as soon as possible so that we can resolve this together.

About Voor je oor

Voor je oor is a specialised online shop with a passion and experience in ear care. Voor je oor focuses on protecting and caring for your ears, with smart and effective solutions for complaints such as swimmer’s ear, glue ear and ear infections. Our range consists of high-quality sprays, comfortable earplugs and practical headbands that contribute to healthy ears in every situation.

Voor je oor is part of Medex Instrumenten Service, a trusted partner to the healthcare industry since 1991.

Yes, Voor je oor is part of a recognized medical company that has been active in the healthcare sector for over 30 years and was voted Company of the Year in Almere.

We strive to improve people’s daily lives through high-quality products and expert advice, so that they can count on comfort, relief, and recovery for their ears. We believe that everyone has the right to good ear care and strive for a world in which ear problems can be treated quickly, safely, and without medication, using innovative products and customer-focused service.