Our ears are frequently what carry the load of unintentional harm from neglect in our hectic day-to-day lives. 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 delve into four essential methods to safeguard your sense of hearing and keep your ears healthy.
Say good by to ear candling
Ear candling, an ancient technique supposed to draw out earwax and improve ear health, has gained popularity despite lacking scientific merit. The process involves inserting a hollow candle into the ear canal and igniting the opposite end, with the notion that a vacuum is created, drawing out impurities. However, several studies have debunked this practice, highlighting its ineffectiveness and potential risks.
Not only does ear candling fail to remove earwax effectively, but it also poses substantial risks. Burns to the delicate ear structures, perforated eardrums, and aggravation of existing issues can all be consequences of this practice. Moreover, the residue left behind after ear candling frequently consists of candle wax and debris as opposed to extracted earwax.
In light of these findings, medical experts universally 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 alternatives for ear hygiene.
No more cotton swabs
The appeal of cotton swabs for ear cleaning is indisputable, with many individuals turning to these apparently harmless tools for maintenance. However, contrary to public opinion, inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal poses more dangers than benefits. Rather than effectively eliminating earwax, swabs can accidentally jam wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction and potential injury.
The delicate nature of the eardrum makes it vulnerable to damage from foreign objects, including cotton swabs. Injuries, such as perforations or abrasions can occur, creating pain, infection, and hearing impairment. It would be better to seek professional help if necessary or otherwise rely on your ear’s self-cleaning ability rather than putting any object in the ear.
Be mindful of the volume: protect against loud noise
It’s a loud world we live in and our ears are continuously being assaulted by noises of all different volumes. Exposure to loud noise is unavoidable, from attending sporting events and concerts to walking down noisy city streets to mowing your lawn. 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 crucial to use hearing protection and, if you can, avoid excessively loud settings in order to avoid damage. Whenever you can’t steer clear of really loud noise, protection like earplugs and earmuffs should be utilized.
Additionally, when using personal audio devices, like headphones or earbuds, maintaining a moderate volume and taking regular breaks can help preserve hearing health.
If you detect any symptoms, act quickly
Perhaps the most essential aspect of preserving optimal hearing health is being attentive to the signals your ears give you and taking prompt action in response to any concerning symptoms. If you wait to get your hearing loss treated you will most likely worsen the problem.
If you have symptoms like ringing in the ears, difficulty understanding speech, or pain or pressure in your ears, it’s important that you acknowledge it. Make an appointment with us right away if you experience any of these symptoms. Your hearing results as well as your quality of life will be substantially increased by early detection and intervention.
In conclusion, the health and well-being of our ears are paramount in navigating the sensory landscape of our lives. We can maintain our healthy hearing by avoiding cotton swabs and ear candles, protecting our ears against loud noise, and recognizing early warning signs.
If you suspect that you might be experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss, call us today for an appointment.