Can You Play a Musical Instrument with Otitis Externa?

Q: Can You Play a Musical Instrument with Otitis Externa?

Hello： If there is an outer ear infection, playing a wind instrument should be fine; however, if the ear infection is caused by a cold leading to otitis media, playing an instrument may push nasal secretions into the middle ear. <br>If there is significant ear fullness, it is adv

Can I play a musical instrument if I have otitis externa?

Today is the third day of the illness, and the inflammation has spread from the outer ear to the middle ear.
I have been taking Tylenol and antibiotics.
During this period, is it advisable to play a musical instrument for one hour every day?

Mr. Luo, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/07

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: If there is an outer ear infection, playing a wind instrument should be fine; however, if the ear infection is caused by a cold leading to otitis media, playing an instrument may push nasal secretions into the middle ear.
If there is significant ear fullness, it is advisable to rest for a few days.
Wishing you safety and health.
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi.

Reply Date: 2015/12/07

More Info

When dealing with otitis externa, or outer ear infection, it's essential to consider the severity of the condition and any associated symptoms before deciding to continue playing a musical instrument. In your case, you mentioned that the infection has progressed to the middle ear, which raises some concerns.

Playing a musical instrument, especially wind instruments, can potentially exacerbate your condition. This is primarily due to the pressure changes and airflow that occur when blowing into an instrument. If you have a blockage or inflammation in the Eustachian tube (which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat), playing a wind instrument could force nasal secretions into the middle ear, potentially worsening your symptoms or prolonging the healing process.

Given that you are already experiencing symptoms for three days and are on medication, it is advisable to take a cautious approach. If you are feeling significant ear pressure, discomfort, or if your symptoms are worsening, it would be best to refrain from playing for a few days. Resting your ears can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Moreover, the use of antibiotics indicates that your body is fighting an infection, and engaging in activities that might strain your ears could hinder recovery. It’s crucial to listen to your body; if you feel discomfort while playing, it’s a sign that you should stop.

In addition to the physical aspects, consider the psychological impact of your condition. If playing music brings you joy, you might feel tempted to continue, but your health should take precedence. Once your symptoms improve and you receive clearance from your healthcare provider, you can gradually return to playing your instrument.

In summary, while it may be possible to play a musical instrument with otitis externa, the progression to middle ear involvement complicates matters. It is advisable to rest your ears, monitor your symptoms, and consult with your healthcare provider before resuming any musical activities. Prioritizing your health will ultimately allow you to enjoy music more fully in the future.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Chronic Otitis Externa: Treatment, Recovery, and Hearing Concerns

Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing inflammation of the external auditory canal and have been following up with my doctor for over a month. The doctor informed me that I have chronic otitis externa, which will take a longer time to heal. I was also told that the ear...

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology
It is recommended to keep the external auditory canal dry, as environmental factors such as humidity or dust may hinder the healing of otitis externa. If itching persists, alternating the use of medications (ointments and drops) may be beneficial. Severe cases of otitis externa c...

Can Otitis Media and Otitis Externa Occur on the Same Ear?

Hello: In August, I had otitis media with effusion in one ear, and after more than a week of treatment, it improved. However, yesterday I developed an outer ear canal infection in the same ear. I would like to know why there is inflammation in the same ear. If I finish the medica...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hi Ms. Chang, Hello, the outer ear and middle ear are separated by the eardrum, and it is possible for inflammation to occur on the same side. Otitis media is often caused by a cold or sinusitis, while otitis externa is frequently due to improper ear cleaning. It is also possibl...

Can You Hike with Ear Pain and Tinnitus? Expert Advice on Ear Health

Hello, Doctor. At the end of September, I experienced pain in my right ear for about 1 to 2 days after forcefully blowing my nose. Since the pain improved, I did not seek medical attention. However, around October 9, the pain returned, and after a consultation, I was diagnosed wi...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the issues you mentioned could be due to: 1) Eustachian tube dysfunction: This is the most common cause and can occur not only during flying, climbing, or diving, but also when forcefully blowing your nose or bending over. 2) Sudden sensorineural hearing loss. 3) Otitis me...

Understanding Ear Infections: Acute vs. Chronic Otitis Externa

(Today is the third day) Although I saw a doctor on the second day who prescribed antibiotics and ear drops, the doctor mentioned that the swelling is quite severe. However, when I press around my ear, it doesn't hurt. Is that normal? I still feel a sensation of fullness in ...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Hello: The occurrence has been within a week, which should still be classified as acute otitis externa. It is recommended to continue using the medications prescribed by the clinic and to monitor the situation. If there is no improvement, a follow-up visit for further examination...