Stress & Its Role With Ear Infections

The effects of stress have many effects on the systems of the body and may lead to increased risk of ear infection. Overcoming stress to take charge of your everyday schedule will help give the body a fighting chance against future ear infections.

Effects

• Stress often causes diet and behavioral changes that weaken the body's immune system. Bacteria present in the ear canal is more likely to overcome the immune system and cause infection if the body is under sustained stress.

Diet

• Stress may lead to erratic eating schedules causing malnutrition and fluctuating blood sugar levels. Nutrient deficiencies and imbalances of sugars effect blood flow and the ability of the immune system to fight an ear infection.

Exercise

• Stress tends to lead to a decrease in physical activity lowering the body's natural defenses against ear infections. Choosing to include a few minutes of exercise in your daily routine will increase immunity, reduce stress and improve overall health.

Sleep

• Loss of sleep due to increased stress makes it difficult for the body to recharge and continue the fight against infection. Adhering to a scheduled sleep pattern, despite stress, may help to both relieve stress and decrease the chance of an ear infection.

Warning

• Ear infections have symptoms of inner ear pain, hearing loss, tenderness and discomfort. Doctors have found these same symptoms may occur due to increased stress or unbalanced diet, even when no ear infection is present.