How Phoenix’s Climate Impacts Ear Health Year-Round

The ears play a vital role in daily life, supporting not only our ability to hear but also our capacity to communicate and connect with others. In Phoenix, AZ—where warm, dry conditions persist for much of the year—residents may not realize how the local climate can influence ear health.

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From increased time in the water during hot summer months to dry, irritant-filled air in winter, Phoenix’s environment can contribute to a variety of ear-related issues. Below, we explore some of the most common climate-related ear concerns affecting individuals in the Valley.

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The Impact of Phoenix, AZ, Climate on Ear Health

⭕Swimmer’s ear

Swimmer’s ear, also called otitis externa, is an ear canal infection, which is the pathway between the outer ear and the middle ear. It could either be a bacterial infection or a fungal infection.

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Swimmer’s ear is a common condition, named for its prevalence among individuals who spend significant time in water. However, anyone can get the infection, especially during the warmer months when people spend more time in the water to escape the summer heat. It’s a common infection and can affect anyone, but children between 7 and 14 are generally more susceptible to swimmer’s ear due to frequent water activities and narrower ear canals.

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Common symptoms of swimmer’s ear include:

• A feeling of fullness in the ear
• Muffled hearing
• Ear pain
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Ear redness or swelling
• Itching in the ear

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It’s typically caused by water that stays in the outer ear canal for a long time. This could wear down the ear’s protective wax and creates a moist environment, which is ideal for bacteria to thrive, multiply, and cause an infection.

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Tips and strategies for preventing swimmer’s ear in Phoenix, AZ

✅Keep ears as dry as possible and dry them thoroughly after showering or swimming.

✅Use ear plugs or a bathing cap when swimming.

✅Avoid removing ear wax.

✅Don’t put objects in your ear canal, including cotton-tib swabs.

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⭕Ear pain in the cold, dry winter months

The cooler winter months bring in more than just seasonal changes. They can also affect our ears in surprising ways.

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Winter’s cold and dry conditions can affect ear health and multiple ways:

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• Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures without proper ear protection can trigger ear pain in sensitive individuals.
• Phoenix’s dry and cool winter can easily irritate the skin around the ears, including the lining of the ear canal. This may increase itchiness and irritation around the ears.
• Winter is typically also cold and flu season. Cold and flu symptoms, as well as sinus infections, can cause inflammation and pressure in the sinus passages, which can also trigger ear pain and increase the risk of ear infections in some people.

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⭕Seasonal allergies and ear health

Allergy sufferers know very well how pollen, airborne irritants, and other environmental allergens can impact sinus health. However, the impact of such allergens and irritants extend beyond sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. They can also affect ear health.

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This can happen to sensitive individuals who experience nasal congestion as a response to pollen and other allergens. The body reacts to allergens by producing excess mucus, which not only blocks nasal passages but can also cause mucus buildup in the Eustachian tubes, which are the tiny passages connecting your throat to the middle ear. When congested with excess mucus, this can cause muffled hearing, a feeling of pressure or fullness, and even temporary changes in hearing.

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These auditory changes due to seasonal allergies are usually temporary and should improve once allergy symptoms subside. However, if symptoms persist, it’s important to seek medical evaluation.

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In Arizona, common allergens include:

• Ragweed
• Oak tree
• Olive tree
• Ash tree
• Bermuda grass
• Russian thistle
• Mulberry tree

It’s also important to note that Arizona's unique climate allows for a growing season all year, which means that a variety of pollen and allergens can be present in the air at any given time. The state’s windy climate can also contribute to widespread issues as it makes it very easy for airborne allergens and irritants to travel in the air.

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All-Year Ear Care With Arizona Breathe Free

Led by our team of licensed ENT specialists and care providers, Arizona Breathe Free offers ear evaluations and works closely with patients in Phoenix, Arizona, and the surrounding communities to discuss individualized care plans based on personal ear evaluations, conditions, and health goals.

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If you’re experiencing persistent ear pain or discomfort, our Phoenix ENT team can help. Schedule a consultation to learn more.

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