Specialist warns against using cotton buds for ear cleaning

An ear, nose, and throat specialist warned against using cotton buds for ear cleaning on Tuesday, revealing that the common habit can cause severe ear canal damage. The medical expert explained that earwax serves as a vital natural defence mechanism, meaning that daily insertion of foreign objects to remove it is both unnecessary and hazardous.

HT Lifestyle reported that Zynova Shalby Hospital ENT Specialist Dr Saloni Rajyaguru cautioned that earwax, medically termed cerumen, is widely misunderstood as a sign of poor hygiene. Rajyaguru stated that glands in the ear canal naturally produce this substance to lubricate the area, preventing dryness, itching, and irritation. The wax acts as a protective shield, trapping dust, dirt, bacteria, and insects before they can travel deeper and damage the eardrum.

Risks of Cotton Buds

• Pushes wax deeper: Cotton buds push earwax further into the ear canal instead of removing it, which often leads to severe blockages.
• Causes physical trauma: Inserting cotton buds can result in ear pain, reduced hearing, ringing in the ears, and dizziness.
• Punctures the eardrum: The physical pressure from inserting thin objects into the ear canal risks puncturing or tearing the delicate eardrum.

Healthy Ear Cleaning Practices

• Clean the outer ear only: Wash only the external structure of the ear using a soft, damp cloth without rubbing the skin too hard.
• Avoid sharp objects: Never insert hairpins, keys, cotton buds, or other sharp items into the ear canal under any circumstances.
• Seek professional help: Consult a medical professional to remove earwax if you experience symptoms like hearing loss, pain, or blockage.

Rajyaguru concluded that earwax removal should only occur under medical recommendation. If individuals experience persistent ear pain, unusual discharge, hearing difficulties, or a feeling of fullness, they should seek professional treatment rather than attempting dangerous home extraction methods.

Note: This article is based on user-generated content from social media, and the claims have not been independently verified. It is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Readers should consult a doctor with any questions about a medical condition.