Our ears are frequently what carry the load of accidental harm from neglect in our busy daily lives. There are a few common but hazardous practices, including using cotton swabs and ear candling, that will put your hearing health at risk. Below, we delve into 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 improve ear health, has gained popularity despite lacking scientific merit. It’s believed that a vacuum is created when a hollow ear candle is inserted into your ear canal and the wick at the other end is lit theoretically drawing impurities out. However, numerous studies have debunked this practice, emphasizing its ineffectiveness and potential risks.
You might be putting your hearing in peril by using a practice that won’t even remove any earwax. Burns to the sensitive ear structures, perforated eardrums, and exacerbation of existing issues can all be consequences of this practice. Also, the residue left behind after ear candling frequently is comprised of candle wax and debris as opposed to extracted earwax.
In light of these findings, medical professionals universally discourage the use of ear candling. Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) warn against this practice, emphasizing safer methods for ear hygiene.
No more cotton swabs
The attraction of cotton swabs for ear cleaning is unquestionable, with many individuals turning to these seemingly innocuous tools for maintenance. However, contrary to public opinion, inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal poses more dangers than benefits. Impaction and possible injury can be the result of using cotton swabs rather than actually cleaning out earwax.
The eardrum is delicate and objects like cotton swabs can cause considerable 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 depend 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 noisy world we live in and our ears are continuously being assaulted by noises of all different volume levels. Exposure to loud noise is unavoidable, from attending sporting events and concerts to walking down noisy city streets to mowing your lawn. Nevertheless, prolonged or excessive exposure can have detrimental effects on auditory health, leading to noise-induced hearing loss or tinnitus.
To minimize the threat of hearing damage, it is critical to be aware of noise levels and take active measures to protect your ears. This includes using hearing protection, like earmuffs or earplugs, in loud environments and restricting exposure to loud sounds whenever you can.
Additionally, when utilizing personal audio devices, like headphones or earbuds, retaining a moderate volume and taking regular rests can help preserve hearing health.
If you observe any symptoms, act quickly
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of preserving optimal hearing health is being attentive to the signals your ears provide and taking prompt action in response to any concerning symptoms. If you hold off on getting your hearing loss treated you will probably exacerbate the issue.
It’s essential to recognize common signs of hearing loss, such as difficulty understanding speech, ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears. Make an appointment with us as soon as possible if you encounter any of these symptoms. Early detection and intervention can substantially improve results and improve your quality of life.
In conclusion, the health and well-being of our ears are vital in navigating the sensory landscape of our lives. By embracing these four practices, avoiding ear candling and cotton swabs, protecting against loud noise, and understanding early warning signs, we can preserve our precious sense of hearing and cherish the symphony of sounds that enhance our existence.
If you suspect that you might be experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss, call us today for an appointment.