New Delhi: ENT specialists are reporting a rise in painful ear canal infections this summer, warning that trapped water, wax build-up and unsafe cleaning practices are turning minor discomfort into serious problems.Doctors attribute the increase to higher footfall at swimming pools and water parks as people try to beat the heat. Moisture trapped inside the ear, along with accumulated wax, creates conditions for bacterial growth.One such case involved 22-year-old Issac Paul, who developed severe pain and hearing loss after attempting to remove water from his ear following a visit to a water park. When he consulted ENT specialist Dr Rajesh Bhardwaj, doctors found a large abscess blocking the ear canal.The infection, worsened by trapped debris and moisture, required surgical drainage under local anaesthesia, followed by cleaning and antiseptic dressing.Doctors say a common mistake is using cotton swabs, earbuds or other objects to clean the ears. Instead of removing wax, these often push it deeper, trap moisture and cause small injuries that allow bacteria to enter.“People often believe they are cleaning their ears, but in reality they are compacting wax, trapping moisture and creating tiny injuries in the skin of the ear canal,” said Dr Rajesh Bhardwaj, adding, “These microscopic abrasions provide an entry point for bacteria, which can rapidly lead to infection and abscess formation.”ENT specialists note that such infections can be particularly painful because the ear canal skin is tightly stretched over bone and cartilage, leaving little room for swelling.Dr Meena Agrawal, senior consultant and ENT surgeon at PSRI Hospital, said self-cleaning often worsens the issue. “We often make the mistake of cleaning our ears ourselves. Using cotton swabs or sharp objects for immediate relief can cause greater harm. During summers, we see more such cases, especially among those visiting swimming pools and water parks. If water enters the ear and you feel discomfort or blockage, seek medical help immediately,” she said.
