27 Aug 2019
How to Prevent Ear Infections this Monsoon
#Best ENT Specialist in Bhopal
Though the monsoon brings us the much-needed respite from the summer. It also comes with its own set of problems. The increase in waterborne diseases and high humidity is bad for people who suffer from ear and throat infections. Read on to learn how to stop Ear infections during Monsoon. Stay infection free and enjoy the rains. One has to take special care of children. Ear infection in babies is very common as they are vulnerable due to their low immunity.
Why do we get Ear infection during Monsoon?
The rise in humidity due to the rains is an ideal situation for fungus and bacteria to grow. We often get caught in the rain and get drenched. Not changing into dry clothes immediately or walking into an air-conditioned room in wet clothes is an invitation for common cold and throat infection. According to ENT Doctors, the increase in ear infection cases jumps 6 to 10 times during monsoons.
What are the Types of Ear Infection during Monsoon?
There are 2 types of Infections which are general during monsoon.
- Bacterial Ear Infection
Though bacterial infection cases happen throughout the year, there is a large increase in cases during monsoon.
- Fungal Ear Infection
Fungal infection happens when the humidity is high. The wet and moist surfaces are breeding ground for fungus. The infection lies in the outer ear or the ear canal. The scientific name for fungal infection is Otomycosis.
What are the causes of Bacterial Ear Infection?
A bacterial ear infection can occur due to several causes. Throat infection is very common during the monsoon. Usually, the infection during monsoon starts from the throat. Smokers are more prone than others. Most of us do not pay attention and expect the infection to cure on its own. This infection spreads to the ear through the Eustachian tube.
Important Tips to prevent Bacterial Ear infection during Monsoon
The middle ear gets affected by bacterial infection as it spreads from the throat. We should protect our throat to ensure that the infection does not spread to the Ear.
During the rains, it is advisable to avoid cold drinks and foods which irritate the throat. Have lots of hot liquids like Tea, Coffee, and Soups.
Gargle your throat with saltwater, saltwater is a safe disinfectant.
Carry a hand sanitizer at all times; use Sanitizer if your hands come in contact with surfaces touched by others. For e.g. doorknobs, bus and metro handrails.
If an infection has already set in, antibiotic treatment may be required. Consult the doctor immediately, timely treatment will prevent the spread of infection.
What are the causes of Fungal Ear Infection?
A fungal ear infection is generally caused when the fungus is formed in the ear. The 2 main reasons are-
Transfer of fungus from an external source to our ears.
During the humid weather, fungus tends to grow on surfaces or clothes which are exposed to dampness. Touching fungus-infected clothes or surface transfers the fungus to our hands. At times we insert the same fingers into our ears. This transfers the fungus to our ears.