Those who have an aversion to water may not know much about swimmer’s ear. Basically, it’s an infection that grows in our outer ear canal. It can go all the way from an eardrum to the outside of our head. The name comes from the fact that it’s caused by water being stuck in our eardrum. Things like inserting cotton swabs or fingers into our ear are also to blame. Given the environment, the fungus candida can cause swimmer’s ear also.
How Is That Possible?
Candida is a type of yeast that can cause infections within us, known as candidiasis. Think about another Candida-based infection – tinea. Tinea infections are tied to the idea that this candida thrives in a wet, warm environment.
That type of an environment is similar to an eardrum that has retained liquid. If candida is already in our system, it could thrive in there.
It Has to Be in Your Body First
The idea that candida can cause swimmer’s ear comes with the gate-opener that the bacteria must first be in our body. Although not the most documented, it is possible.
Candidiasis can grow in our mouth, throat, and esophagus. You know it as thrush, which is extremely common. With that in mind, it’s important to understand that our ears and throats are linked. The link is through the Eustachian tube, which is there to relieve pressure in our ears. If we have an overgrowth of candida in our mouth, throat or esophagus – it’s entirely possible that it could spread to our ears through the Eustachian tube.
In Conclusion
While it may not be the only cause, candida can cause swimmer’s ear. This is another offshoot of candida infection, highlighting the importance of treating it properly when it occurs.
