Ear fungus: what to do if you have a fungus in your ear?
Fungal infestation of the ear is called otomycosis. Ear fungus affects the external auditory canal and causes pain and itching in it. The pathogens spread primarily in damp and warm environments, which is why it is increasingly being pointed out that in-ear headphones promote a fungal infection. Find out everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms and treatment of ear fungus below.
Ear fungus causes
There are many causes of a fungal infection in the ear, ranging from pollution in the ear canal to chronic inflammation and long-term use of antibiotics. Poor health and dandruff also increase the risk of infestation. Another reason is injuries to the ear, which can be caused by the incorrect use of cotton buds in the ear, for example. Hearing aid wearers are also at particular risk, as hearing aids often lead to increased earwax production. If the earwax is pushed deeper into the ear, it can block the ear canal and provide an ideal environment for fungal infections.
Ear fungus symptoms
The development of fungi in the ear causes epithelium in the ear canal to flake off, resulting in soft, fluffy secretions. A wetting ear canal or unpleasant odor from the ears can also indicate a fungal infection. The fungus itself varies depending on the species - the color can be white, yellow or black. The infection is usually accompanied by itching and slight pain. Those affected describe the feeling as a "full ear" and complain of an infestation particularly frequently in spring and summer. The accompanying symptom is sometimes tinnitus.
Ear fungus treatment
In order to guide a suitable treatment, a sample of the fungus must first be taken and used to determine the fungus genus. Various treatment approaches are now possible with the aim of removing the fungal mass:
- Extraction
- Ear canal wash with antifungal solution
- Ear drops and daily ear wash with antiseptic solution
Swelling and redness may occur after removal, but relief should be noticeable after just a few days. Healing can be expected after 10-14 days
.Home remedies for ear fungus
The use of home remedies is not recommended for ear fungus, as they are neither useful nor helpful. Instead, an ear, nose and throat specialist must be consulted in order to initiate suitable treatment. As a preventative measure, it is advisable to avoid unsuitable cleaning methods, such as cleaning ears with cotton buds. When wearing in-ear headphones, it is advisable to take regular breaks to allow the ear to dry by ventilating it.