What is the best way to clean your ears?
Practicing proper ear hygiene is essential for overall hearing health. However, it’s essential to understand that the ear is a delicate and self-cleaning organ that doesn’t require frequent cleaning. In this blog, we will explore the best practices for ear cleaning, while also addressing common ear problems, hearing protection, earwax removal, and the importance of seeking professional help when needed.
Earwax and Earwax Removal
Earwax is a waxy substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It serves as a protective barrier, trapping dirt, debris, dust, and other harmful microorganisms, preventing them from entering the delicate parts of the ear.
Naturally, the ears can eliminate excess earwax through movements of the jaw, such as talking or chewing. However, there may be instances where the ears produce too much earwax that could lead to earwax impaction.
Most people use cotton buds or Q-tips to clean the ears from wax. However, this practice is frowned upon by audiologists and hearing care providers because doing so might push the wax deeper into the ear canal.
How do you know if your ear is full of wax?
There’s no way for us to know what’s going on inside our ears unless we have someone look into it, right? The naked eye can only see a portion of the internal ear, which is why audiologists use special tools and equipment to look inside your ears and check their overall health.
How would you know if your ears are full of wax and need professional ear cleaning? Check out the symptoms below:
- Earache
- A feeling of fullness in the ear (clogged, blocked, or plugged up feeling)
- Ringing or noises in the ear
- Diminished hearing
- Dizziness
- Persistent dry cough
- Itchiness in the ear
- Discharge or odor in the ear
What happens if earwax touches the eardrum?
If earwax reaches the eardrum, it can cause muffled hearing or pain. There are many products designed to remove or soften earwax using oils, syringes, solutions, and ear drops.
Be cautious when using these products and follow the package instructions. If used incorrectly, they could create other problems such as damage to the ear canal or eardrum.
The Dangers of Cotton Swabs or Buds:
Contrary to popular belief, cotton swabs or Q-tips are not recommended for ear cleaning. Inserting them into the ear canal can push earwax deeper and worsen the impaction, which could potentially lead to blockages or damage to the eardrum.
It is best to avoid using them for ear-cleaning purposes. If you feel the need to have your ears cleaned, the safest option is to schedule an earwax removal appointment with an audiologist.
If you are bothered by the feeling of water in your ear canals after showering or bathing, it is best to wipe out the bowl of the ear and the ear canal with a tissue on the end of your finger.
Best Way to Clean Your Ears:
Below are some steps to clean your ears safely and effectively:
- Soften the earwax: If you have earwax buildup, you can use a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, or over-the-counter earwax removal drops.
- Flushing technique: Once the earwax has softened, you can rinse your ear with warm water using an ear irrigation kit or rubber-bulb syringe. Gently tilt your head to the side and pull the earlobe upward to straighten the ear canal and allow the product to be fully absorbed.
- Professional hearing care: If you experience clogged ears, diminished hearing, ear pain, or persistent earwax buildup, consult an audiologist. They are trained to perform safe and effective earwax removal using specialized tools and techniques.
It’s highly important to exercise caution and consult an audiologist before trying any home remedies to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Professional Earwax Removal and Ear Cleaning Services in Littleton, CO
Practicing proper ear hygiene is essential for maintaining optimal hearing health. Before you get into the habit of cleaning your ears on a daily basis, keep in mind that the ear is a self-cleaning organ, which means that it is generally unnecessary to clean it frequently.
If you experience symptoms such as persistent earwax impaction, ear pain, diminished hearing, drainage, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, please seek medical attention promptly. Audiologists are the best professionals who are trained on the best way to clean your ears. They can perform a comprehensive examination, diagnose any underlying conditions, and recommend appropriate treatments to address your hearing concerns.
Columbine Hearing Care offers professional ear cleaning and earwax removal in Littleton, CO, and nearby areas.
Contact us today to book your appointment!