In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our ears often bear the brunt of neglect and inadvertent harm. There are a few common but hazardous practices, including making use of cotton swabs and ear candling, that will put your hearing health in peril. Below, we explore four important strategies to safeguard your sense of hearing and keep your ears healthy.
Ear candling is a no-no
Ear candling, an ancient practice purported to extract earwax and promote ear health, has gained popularity despite lacking scientific merit. 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, showcasing its ineffectiveness and potential risks.
Not only does ear candling fail to clear away earwax effectively, 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 problems. Moreover, the residue left behind after ear candling frequently consists of candle wax and debris rather than extracted earwax.
Medical professionals always discourage ear candling because of these findings. Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) warn against this practice, emphasizing safer alternatives for ear hygiene.
No more cotton swabs
The allure of cotton swabs for ear cleaning is undeniable, with many individuals turning to these seemingly innocuous tools for maintenance. However, contrary to popular belief, inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal poses more risks than benefits. Impaction and potential injury can be the result of using cotton swabs rather than actually cleaning out earwax.
The eardrum is sensitive and objects like cotton swabs can cause considerable damage. Injuries, such as perforations or abrasions can occur, resulting in pain, infection, and hearing impairment. To prevent these complications, it is advisable to steer clear of inserting any objects into the ear canal and instead depend upon the ear’s self-cleaning mechanisms or seek professional help if necessary.
Be mindful of the volume: protect against loud noise
It’s a loud world we live in and our ears are constantly being assaulted by noises of all different volume levels. From bustling city streets to recreational activities such as concerts and sporting events, exposure to loud noise is ubiquitous. However, prolonged or excessive exposure can have detrimental effects on auditory health, resulting in noise-induced hearing loss or tinnitus.
It’s crucial to use hearing protection and, if possible, avoid very loud settings in order to prevent damage. Whenever you can’t avoid very loud noise, protection like earplugs and earmuffs should be used.
Additionally, when utilizing 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 quickly on symptoms
Taking quick action when your ears begin to tell you that you’re starting to experience some level of hearing loss is essential to protect your ears from harm. In spite of the availability of advanced treatments, such as hearing aids, holding off on intervention can exacerbate hearing loss and complicate management.
If you have symptoms like ringing in the ears, difficulty understanding speech, or pain or pressure in your ears, it’s essential that you acknowledge it. Make an appointment with us right away if you encounter any of these symptoms. Early detection and intervention can substantially improve outcomes and enhance your quality of life.
In conclusion, the health and well-being of our ears are paramount in navigating the sensory landscape of our lives. By adopting these four practices, avoiding ear candling and cotton swabs, protecting against loud noise, and understanding early warning signs, we can maintain our precious sense of hearing and enjoy the symphony of sounds that enrich our existence.
Call us immediately for an evaluation if you are suffering from ear damage or hearing loss.