Ear-Nose and Throat Doctor (ENT) Questions Ear Infections

Ear infections that cause lymph nodes under the jaw to hurt

Can frequent ear phone use cause an ear infection??

Female | 16 years old

7 Answers

Potentially.
Yes, it is possible that earphones, especially ones which insert into the ear canal, can result in infections of the ear canal known as otitis externa. The occlusion of the canal can result in trapping moisture and bacteria while potentially stripping away some of the protective wax (cerumen).
Ear phone use typically does not cause middle ear infections. However the use of ear phones can lead to ear canal irritation and infections.
Ear infections are not caused by phone usage unless the ear buds are always used and painful.

James A. Hadley, MD, FACS
Highly unlikely.

James A. Hadley, MD, FACS
Rarely phone use will cause ear infections, however cleaning your ears will.
No. Probably muscle tension