Earbuds can become a source of bacterial infection and provoke inflammation of the outer ear, said dermatologist Alexandra Fileva.
With prolonged use, headphones limit ventilation of the ear canal and retain moisture, especially if worn for several hours in a row, used during workouts, and rarely cleaned. Over time, skin oil, sweat, and earwax accumulate on the surface of the ear tips, creating a favorable environment for the growth of microorganisms.
Inflammation can manifest with a range of symptoms: itching, congestion, pain, and hearing loss. In some cases, this affects overall well-being — headaches, irritability, and worsened sleep and concentration may occur. People with sensitive skin and a tendency to inflammation are at the highest risk.
To prevent problems, the doctor recommends regularly cleaning headphones, not sharing them with others, taking breaks from use, and consulting a specialist if pain, discharge, or persistent discomfort in the ear arises.
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