2023-07-16 07:00:00
They are so comfortable that many people can wear them for hours: So-called in-ear headphones have become an integral part of everyday life. Whether you’re on the train, jogging, or at a professional conference, these small, wireless earbuds come in handy. But is there a catch? Especially on social media, the statement is circulating that these everyday helpers can lead to a fungal infection in the ear. But… “Is this true”?
Incubator for pathogens is created
As practical as in-ear headphones are, they do have a catch. At least for all those who wear them frequently and like to wear them for hours at a time, because: The wireless headphones close off the auditory canal, creating a warm, humid climate in the ear. This in turn can act like a real incubator for pathogens and promote fungal infestation.
The fungi can infect the ear canal, so a so-called Otomykose arises. Otomycosis is a fungal infection that can occur in the external auditory canal. Any foreign body, including hearing aids, is one of the risk factors for otomycosis. In other words, anyone who wears in-ear headphones frequently and for long periods of time tends to be at risk.
Come in addition: Earwax is pushed inwards into the ear canal by the headphones. This in turn impairs the self-cleaning function of the ear – pathogens such as bacteria or fungi can no longer be broken down properly.
Typical symptoms
The symptoms of such inflammation caused by bacteria or fungi? The ear itches or hurts, sometimes the ear canal is weeping or smells unpleasant. The ear canal can also become swollen, which can lead to impaired hearing.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself, it is advisable to consult a doctor’s office. After proper treatment, the fungal infection usually goes away in about 10 to 14 days.
This is how you can prevent it
But what if you are reluctant to do without your in-ear headphones – but of course you want to avoid such an infection?
The most important preventive method is to clean the headphones and the case regularly. Anyone who also tends towards increased earwax production should have their ear canals cleaned regularly.
And probably the easiest method of all: Especially in summer or when doing sports, it is advisable to give your ears a break after wearing the in-ear headphones so that the auditory canal is ventilated.
By the way: fungal infections can be contagious. In order to prevent transmission, in-ear headphones should therefore not be exchanged – neither from person to person nor from one ear to the other.
“Is it true…” that in-ear headphones can lead to an infection in the ear? (Photo: David Weinert)
Note: This text is for general information only. This information is not a substitute for medical treatment by a specialist. If you have any health problems or concerns, be sure to contact your family doctor.
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