Be Cautious of "Ear Mold" with Prolonged Use of Earphones—Heat Causes Moisture in Ears Leading to Growth, Treatment Can Be Prolonged

During the hot season when sweat and humidity are prevalent, the "stuffiness" caused by earphones, which have become widely worn due to wireless technology, can easily lead to fungal infections in the ear canal, commonly known as "ear fungus" (otitis externa mycotica). Ignoring early signs such as itching, a feeling of ear blockage, flaky earwax, and sometimes ear discharge can prolong treatment, requiring weeks of cleaning and antifungal medication at a clinic. News reports have also issued warnings about the combination of "extreme heat and prolonged earphone use," with the trend being particularly noticeable among people in their 10s to 40s who wear them while multitasking. The basic approach is to visit an ENT specialist early and practice self-care by drying the ears and reducing the time they are sealed. Proper hygiene of the earphones themselves (cleaning the silicone tips and correctly cleaning the mesh part) is directly linked to preventing recurrence. Overuse of ear picks or inserting cotton swabs too deeply can damage the skin barrier and worsen the condition. Hearing aids, earplugs, swimming, diabetes, and weakened immunity are also risk factors. If you experience **"pain," "fever," "dizziness," or "hearing loss,"** do not self-administer ear drops and be sure to consult a medical professional.