In the hectic frenzy of day-to-day life, our ears frequently shoulder the burden of neglect and accidental harm. There are a few common but dangerous practices, including utilizing cotton swabs and ear candling, that will put your hearing health at risk. Below, we explore four essential methods to safeguard your sense of hearing and keep your ears protected.
Ear candling is a no-no
In spite of the total lack of scientific merit, the ancient practice of attempting to eliminate earwax has recently achieved some popularity. The process involves inserting a hollow candle inside of the ear canal and lighting the opposite end, with the notion that a vacuum is created, drawing out impurities. However, numerous studies have debunked this practice, highlighting its ineffectiveness and potential risks.
Not only does ear candling fail to clear away earwax efficiently, but it also poses significant hazards. The application of heat near the sensitive structures of the ear can lead to burns, perforated eardrums, and even aggravate existing issues. Furthermore, the residue left behind after ear candling frequently consists of candle wax and debris rather than extracted earwax.
In light of these findings, medical professionals always warn against the use of ear candling. Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) caution against this practice, emphasizing safer options for ear hygiene.
Banish the cotton swabs
The allure of cotton swabs for ear cleaning is unquestionable, with many people turning to these seemingly innocuous tools for maintenance. However, contrary to public opinion, inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal presents more risks than benefits. Instead of effectively removing earwax, swabs can accidentally pack wax deeper into the ear canal, resulting in impaction and possible injury.
The eardrum is sensitive and objects like cotton swabs can cause substantial damage. Pain, infection, and hearing loss can all be the outcomes of perforations or abrasions of the eardrum. It would be better to seek professional assistance if necessary or otherwise rely on your ear’s self-cleaning ability rather than putting any object in the ear.
Keep volumes to a minimum
It’s a loud world we live in and our ears are constantly being assaulted by noises of all different volume levels. From busy city streets to recreational activities such as concerts and sporting events, exposure to loud sound is ubiquitous. Over-exposure to loud noises like these can have negative effects on your hearing health resulting in tinnitus and noise-related hearing loss.
It’s essential to utilize ear protection and, if you can, avoid excessively loud settings in order to avoid damage. Whenever you can’t steer clear of very loud noise, protection like earplugs and earmuffs should be utilized.
In addition, when using personal audio devices, like headphones or earbuds, retaining a moderate volume and taking regular breaks can help preserve hearing health.
Listen to your ears: act promptly on symptoms
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of maintaining optimal hearing health is being attentive to the signals your ears give you and taking quick action in response to any concerning symptoms. If you hold off on getting your hearing loss treated you will most likely exacerbate the issue.
If you have symptoms like ringing in the ears, difficulty understanding speech, or pain or pressure in your ears, it’s important that you recognize it. If any of these symptoms are experienced, seek assessment from a qualified hearing specialist or otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) immediately. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve results and enhance your quality of life.
Your ability to successfully navigate the landscape of your life depends on you keeping your hearing as healthy as possible. We can maintain our healthy hearing by avoiding cotton swabs and ear candles, protecting our ears against loud noise, and recognizing early warning symptoms.
Call us today for an evaluation if you are suffering from ear damage or hearing loss.