HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM COMMON EAR PROBLEMS DURING WINTERS?

As chilly winter is on the verge, it's important to keep your ears warm. Winter is a time of the year that can be hard on your ears. Chilly temperatures can cause your ears to dry out, making it easier for bacteria to grow, leading to various types of infections. Ear problems are common in winter because of the cold breeze and dry air. In this article you will learn how to recognize the symptoms of ear infections and what needs to be done if you think you have one. 

The moisture in the air is low, so your ears are not as well protected from the harsh environment. When there is a change in temperature, the tissues inside your ears shrink. This causes fluid to drain from the ear canal, which can lead to an infection. These infections are called otitis externa or external otitis. This condition usually affects people who have had repeated ear infections, have allergies, or have piercings that are not properly cleaned. 

Sinus infections can cause ear itching and discomfort. A person with sinus problems can experience changes in their hearing, trouble with swallowing, headaches, and fatigue. These symptoms can go away on their own. However, if these symptoms last longer, it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor. 

Ringing in ears is another most common ear problems that we get to see during winters. The ear canal can become blocked with fluid or pus, or it can also become an ear drum that produces the sound. People can also experience ringing as a result of other ear problems such as inner ear infection, chronic sinusitis, and Meniere's disease. 

Swimmer's Ear is also one of the most prevalent ear problems people experience in winters. Symptoms include hearing sounds more than usual, especially of sounds that aren't usually present in the environment, which is especially pronounced with sounds that come from water. Some people might even feel like something has gotten caught in their ear canal or like there's a foreign object in their ear. Swimmer's ear can result in the formation of pus and discharge from the ear. This condition needs immediate medical attention. If left untreated, swimmer's ear can lead to further complications, such as abscesses and even bacterial infection of the ear canal and the surrounding tissue. 

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Ear pain or earache
• Loss of hearing in the affected ear
• Ringing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fullness in the ear
• Tenderness to the touch
• Dizziness
• Feeling sick

PREVENTIVE MEASURES TO AVOID EAR PROBLEMS 

• Stay indoors during early & late hours
• Warm-up yourself
• Use ear muffs whenever possible
• Keep your ears clean and dry
• Smoking can trigger ear inflammation, avoid it
• Avoid chilled beverages, drink warm water / soups
• Add vitamin C to your diet
• Watch-out for early symptoms
• Seek medical help, if you experience any symptoms
• Mitigate the Risk
• Get your hearing tested regularly

Dr. PVLN Murthy

MBBS, DNB, DLO

Consultant ENT/ Otorhinolaryngologist

Star Hospitals

For Appointments, Call: 040 44 77 77 00