Fungal Ear Infection On The Rise In Summers: Warn Doctors
Mumbai: With the arrival of the summer season, there is an increased risk of fungal ear infections (otitis) in all age groups. In the grip of viral and vector-borne infections, there is also a surge in fungal ear infections. It is essential to get prompt treatment and protect against further damage to the ears. Limit exposure to loud noise, maintain good ear hygiene, and do not self-medicate.
Dr. Prashant Kewale, ENT Specialist, Apollo Spectra Mumbai, ''Fungal ear infection called otomycosis is an infection of the ear due to the fungus. This will involve a canal that tends to run from the ear hole to the eardrum. The causes of ear infections are swimming in the contaminated water, trauma to the ear, having diabetes mellitus, using cotton swabs, and not removing ear wax inviting fungal growth,”
Dr. Prashant added, “The ear will become red, hearing loss, the skin of the ear will become scaly, there will be inflammation and swelling, ringing in the ears, muffled hearing, discharge from the ear, and pain. The diagnosis is carried out by examination in the OPD. The treatment includes ear drops and medication. Not treating at the right time can reduce the hearing on a temporary basis due to fungal debris.”
Dr. Shalaka Dighe, ENT Surgeon, Zen Multispeciality Hospital, Mumbai, "Ear pain is a common problem in children and the elderly. To prevent ear infections, take timely treatment for cold, avoid getting water into the ears, dry your ears after showering, avoid putting cotton buds or oil in the ear, avoid scratching ears as fungus can invade, avoid using drops without a doctor’s prescription. Ears have a natural self-cleansing mechanism. A small amount of wax is natural and has a protective role by trapping dust etc. See a doctor if there is a significant wax build-up. Avoid the use of earbuds. ”
