Our ears are often what carry the load of unintentional harm from neglect in our busy daily lives. There are some common but hazardous practices, like using cotton swabs and ear candling, that will put your hearing health at risk. What follows are a few practices you can use to help protect the health of your hearing.
Say good by to ear candling
Ear candling, an ancient practice purported to remove earwax and improve ear health, has gained popularity in spite of lacking scientific merit. The process involves inserting a hollow candle into the ear canal and lighting the opposite end, with the belief that a vacuum is created, pulling out impurities. However, several studies have debunked this practice, showcasing its ineffectiveness and potential risks.
Not only does ear candling fail to remove earwax efficiently, but it also poses considerable risks. Burns to the sensitive ear structures, perforated eardrums, and aggravation of existing issues can all be consequences of this practice. Furthermore, 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 discourage 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 attraction of cotton swabs for ear cleaning is undeniable, with many individuals turning to these apparently innocuous tools for maintenance. But there are more risks than benefits to inserting a cotton swab into your ear canal. Impaction and potential injury can be the result of using cotton swabs rather than actually cleaning out earwax.
The fragile nature of the eardrum makes it vulnerable to damage from foreign objects, including cotton swabs. Injuries, like perforations or abrasions can happen, leading to pain, infection, and hearing loss. To avoid these complications, it is beneficial to refrain from inserting any objects into the ear canal and instead rely on the ear’s self-cleaning mechanisms or seek professional help if necessary.
Keep volumes to a minimum
It’s a loud world we live in and our ears are constantly being assaulted by noises of all different volume levels. From busy city streets to recreational activities such as concerts and sporting events, exposure to loud noise is ubiquitous. Over-exposure to loud noises like these can have negative effects on your hearing health leading to tinnitus and noise-related hearing loss.
It’s crucial to use hearing protection and, if possible, avoid overly loud settings in order to prevent damage. Whenever you can’t steer clear of extremely loud noise, protection such as earplugs and earmuffs should be utilized.
In addition, when using personal audio devices, like headphones or earbuds, retaining a moderate volume and taking regular breaks can help preserve hearing health.
If you observe any symptoms, act promptly
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of preserving optimal hearing health is being alert to the signals your ears give you and taking quick action in response to any concerning symptoms. If you wait to get your hearing loss treated you will most likely worsen the problem.
It’s crucial to recognize common signs of hearing loss, such as trouble understanding speech, ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus), or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears. If any of these symptoms are experienced, seek assessment from a qualified hearing specialist or otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) promptly. Your hearing results as well as your quality of life will be substantially enhanced 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. By embracing 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 enhance our existence.
If you think that you might be experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss, call us today for an appointment.