Fungus in the ear: In-ear headphones are so dangerous
The small headphones usually fill the auditory canal completely and thus ensure optimal sound without background noise. However, if you wear in-ear headphones or wireless Bluetooth headphones for too long, you risk a fungus in your ear or bacterial ear infections .
Otomycosis: This is how the fungus develops in the ear from headphones
Otomycosis is a fungal infection that can occur in the external ear canal. Foreign bodies such as hearing aids  or in-ear headphones are among the risk factors for otomycosis. Anyone who often uses in-ear headphones is therefore particularly at risk: the small earplugs press the earwax into the auditory canal. This affects the self-cleaning of the ear. The result: pathogens such as bacteria or fungi  cannot be broken down, inflammation or fungal infections develop in the ear.
In addition, the earwax can stick in the ear canal and negatively affect hearing. It is therefore advisable to have your ears cleaned regularly in an ear, nose and throat practice.
Fungus in the ear – these signs are there
Not every person who uses the small headphones regularly has to suffer from a fungal infection. With these signs and symptoms, however, medical advice should be sought and the acoustic companions in everyday life should be avoided for the time being:
- red ear canal
- pain in the ear canal
- fluid in the ear
- itching
- Skin changes and slight bleeding of the affected ear
Otomycosis can be treated with antifungal drugs, special antifungal drugs. In some cases, cortisone  therapy is also used.
Do not exchange or share headphones
To prevent the spread of ear fungus or other infections, the headphones should not be mixed up. An infection can otherwise also affect the still healthy ear. In addition, headphones should not be shared with other people, for example to listen to the same music. Bacteria and pathogens can also be easily spread in this way.
Regular cleaning prevents ear fungus
If you can’t keep your hands off your in-ear headphones, you should clean them regularly. A dry microfiber cloth and a soft brush can help remove dust and sand. Cotton swabs clean the output grid and the integrated microphone. Some soapy water can also be used for cleaning, but this should be used in small quantities and with care so as not to damage the headphones.
Tip: Â Dirt and pathogens can also accumulate in the storage box of the in-ear headphones, the so-called charging case: it should be cleaned regularly.