Our ears are often what carry the load of unintentional harm from neglect in our hectic daily lives. There are some common but dangerous practices, including utilizing cotton swabs and ear candling, that will put your hearing health at risk. What follows are a few strategies you can use to help protect the health of your hearing.
Say good by to ear candling
Despite the utter lack of scientific merit, the ancient practice of trying to remove earwax has recently achieved some popularity. The process involves inserting a hollow candle inside of 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, showcasing its ineffectiveness and potential risks.
Not only does ear candling fail to remove earwax effectively, but it also poses considerable risks. The application of heat near the sensitive structures of the ear can result in burns, perforated eardrums, and even exacerbate existing problems. Moreover, the residue left behind after ear candling frequently is comprised 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.
No more cotton swabs
The allure of cotton swabs for ear cleaning is unquestionable, with many people turning to these apparently harmless tools for maintenance. However, contrary to popular belief, inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal presents more risks than advantages. Impaction and potential injury can be the result of using cotton swabs rather than actually cleaning out earwax.
The eardrum is sensitive and objects such as cotton swabs can cause significant damage. Pain, infection, and hearing loss can all be the results of perforations or abrasions of the eardrum. To avoid these complications, it is beneficial to steer clear of inserting any objects into the ear canal and instead depend on the ear’s self-cleaning systems or seek professional assistance if needed.
Keep volumes to a minimum
In a progressively noisy world, our ears are constantly inundated by sounds of differing volumes. From busy city streets to recreational activities such as concerts and sporting events, exposure to loud sound is unavoidable. Over-exposure to loud sounds like these can have negative effects on your hearing health leading to tinnitus and noise-related hearing loss.
To minimize the risk of hearing damage, it is critical to be aware of noise levels and take proactive steps to protect your ears. This includes using hearing protection, including earmuffs or earplugs, in loud settings and restricting exposure to loud noises whenever you can.
Also, take frequent breaks and moderate the volume when you’re using personal listening devices such as headphones and earpods.
If you detect any symptoms, act promptly
Taking fast action when your ears begin to tell you that you’re starting to experience some degree of hearing loss is critical to protect your ears from damage. Despite the availability of advanced treatments, including hearing aids, holding off on intervention can worsen hearing loss and complicate management.
It is imperative to identify common signs of hearing impairment, such as trouble understanding speech, ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears. Schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible if you encounter any of these symptoms. Your hearing outcomes as well as your quality of life will be significantly increased by early detection and intervention.
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 think that you may be experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss, call us today for an appointment.