Health Stack: Why You Shouldn’t Use Cotton Bud To Clean Your Ear

Mutalib Jibril 

The ear is a complex organ responsible for the sense of hearing and the maintenance of balance in the body. It consists of three main parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear.

It is an indispensable organ that enables hearing, balance, communication, safety, and the appreciation of sound. Its intricate structure and functions are essential for our overall sensory perception and engagement with the world around us.

Using cotton buds, commonly known as Q-tips or cotton swabs, to clean the ears is generally discouraged by healthcare professionals.

Medical professionals caution against using it despite some individuals considering it the quickest approach to eliminate excessive wax and debris from their ear canals.This is owing to the fact that using a cotton bud to clean the ears might provide temporary relief from discomfort caused by built-up earwax.

However, it can lead to more significant issues in the long run. Instead of effectively removing the earwax, cotton buds tend to push it further into the ear canal, potentially causing damage. If the wax is pushed all the way to the eardrum, it can result in a ruptured eardrum.

Furthermore, the use of cotton buds can contribute to the formation of blockages when the pushed earwax hardens, which may lead to temporary hearing loss.

It is important to acknowledge the reasons behind the harmful nature of using these buds.

Ear Wax is Useful

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, serves various beneficial purposes in maintaining health.

Ear wax helps to lubricate and moisturize the ear canal, preventing dryness and discomfort. It also contains substances that have antimicrobial properties, which help prevent bacterial and fungal infections in the ear canal;it operates as an insect repellent to keep bugs out of your ears.

Ear Wax Removes Itself

Movements of the jaw, such as talking, chewing, and yawning, assist in the self-cleaning process. These actions help to massage the muscles surrounding the ear canal, aiding in the movement of ear wax towards the outer ear.

To maintain ear cleanliness, all that is required is regular showering and gently cleaning the outer ear using a cloth.
Excessive Ear Wax Removal Causes Dryness

Excessive removal of ear wax can lead to dryness in the ear canal; this is due to the fact that ear wax serves as a protective barrier, lubricating and moisturizing the ear canal. Removing excessive amounts of wax can disturb this natural defense, leaving the ear canal more susceptible to dryness. It can also eliminate the natural source of moisture,resulting in dryness.

How To Clean Your Ear

Cleaning the ears is important for maintaining good hygiene, but it’s essential to do it safely to avoid potential damage or complications. Instead of using cotton buds to clean your ears, consider the following alternatives:
Use a soft washcloth or towel
After bathing gently clean the outer part of your ears with a soft washcloth or towel. Avoid inserting them into the ear canal.

Consider over-the-counter ear drops
Some ear drops are designed to soften earwax, facilitating its natural movement out of the ear canal. Consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional to identify a suitable product and adhere to the recommended usage instructions.

Seek Professional Ear Irrigation

If you frequently experience excessive wax buildup or recurring earwax blockages, it is advisable to seek assistance from a healthcare professional. They can safely perform ear irrigation to remove the excess wax.

It is important to remember that the ears have a self-cleaning mechanism, and normally, earwax naturally works its way out of the ear. However, if you experience ongoing ear pain, hearing loss, or discharge, it is advisable to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.