Monsoon brings respite from scorching heat and revives the earth with its life-giving rains. However, amid the enchanting showers, slinks a silent threat to our acoustic well-being. After conjunctivitis outbreak, monsoon’s high humidity and damp environment created a perfect breeding ground for fungal infections in the ears. These infections, though common, can be uncomfortable and potentially detrimental to our hearing abilities if left untreated. To ensure our auditory health remains intact during this season, it is essential to understand the mechanisms through which the monsoon triggers fungal infections in the ears and adopt proactive measures to protect ourselves. Dr. Swagata Tambe, MD, DNB, FCPS, DDV, Fellow of ISD, Switzerland and CODFI says, “Ear infections can afflict different parts of the ear, including the external, middle, and rarely, the inner ear. The root cause of these infections is often straightforward. As the rainy season approaches, the humidity levels rise, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. Additionally, the presence of debris or minor injuries caused by the use of earbuds further contributes to the onset of infections.” When fluid accumulates in the middle ear, it creates a breeding ground for infections to take hold. Ear infections can be categorized into two types: bacterial and fungal infections.Common symptoms of Ear InfectionEar infections, regardless of their location in the ear—be it the inner, outer, or middle ear—manifest through a set of shared symptoms.The common symptoms include:Severe ear painDischarge from the infected earFeverIntense headacheTips to avoid Ear InfectionKeep Your Ears DryMoisture is a breeding ground for fungi, making it crucial to keep your ears dry during the monsoon season. After getting wet in the rain or swimming, gently dry your ears using a soft towel or a hairdryer set to a low, cool setting. Be sure to tilt your head to the side to allow any trapped water to drain out.Avoid Inserting Objects into Your EarsIt’s important to refrain from inserting any objects into your ears, such as cotton swabs or sharp instruments, as they can cause damage to the delicate ear canal and increase the risk of fungal infections. Instead, gently clean the outer ear with a clean cloth or use specially designed ear drops as recommended by a healthcare professional.Maintain Good Ear HygieneAccording to Dr. Tambe, “Practicing good ear hygiene is essential for preventing fungal infections. Clean your ears regularly with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser recommended by a healthcare professional. Avoid using excessive force or aggressive cleaning techniques that can irritate the ear canal and disrupt its natural protective mechanisms.”
