Earphones in Rain? The Risk to Your Ears Is Real

Listening to music is a great way to beat stress and relax. Using earphones is commonplace nowadays. On a rainy day, listening to your favourite music on earphones is the perfect recipe for a relaxing time.

Did you know that the use of earphones during the rainy season is harmful to you?
Yes, it’s true. According to Otorhinolaryngologists, there is a fourfold rise in ear infections due to prolonged use of earphones during the rainy season.

Common ear infection during the monsoon

The most common ear infection that occurs during the monsoons is named otitis externa (swimmer’s ear) or otomycosis, when the moisture is trapped in the ear canal, leading to growth of bacteria or fungi.

A combination of moisture and earphones is harmful to health.

The ear canal is very delicate and susceptible to dampness. When earphones or earbuds are plugged into the ears, the airflow in the ears gets blocked. The warmth and moisture caused as a result become an ideal ground for the growth of germs, which may prove to be a health hazard. Ill-fitting earplugs can scratch the skin of the ear canal, aggravating the infection. Using headphones also poses a health risk due to prolonged use.

Composition of earphones

Earphones are made of materials, both cheap and expensive. The low-grade earphones are made with low-quality plastic materials that leach toxins into the ear canal. These earphones may develop tiny cracks that facilitate the growth of germs, thereby worsening the infection.

Clean earphones

Earphones should be cleaned properly to prevent the growth of germs, bacteria and fungi.

Ear infection symptoms

Initial symptoms of an ear infection are slight itching or a feeling of fullness in the ear. Followed by pain, discharge of liquid, or temporary hearing loss. These symptoms should not be dismissed lightly, as a delay in seeking medical attention may lead to complications.

Preventive steps

Following some preventive measures can help to protect against ear infections due to the use of earphones/ear pods.

Reduce the use of earphones during the monsoons.
Keep the ears dry and clean.
Regularly clean the earphones.
Use earbud dehydrators.
Do not share your earphones with anyone, as this may lead to the transmission of germs.
Always consult an ENT specialist when symptoms arise.

The ear infections can be cured by timely medical intervention and treatment.

The next time you reach for your earphones, remember this article and act wisely.

Inputs from various media sources.