Our ears are frequently what carry the load of accidental harm from neglect in our hectic day-to-day lives. From the allure of ear candling to the apparently harmless act of utilizing cotton swabs, our hearing health can suffer from these common yet dangerous practices. What follows are a few strategies you can use to help safeguard the health of your hearing.
Say good by to ear candling
Ear candling, an ancient practice purported to draw out earwax and improve ear health, has gained popularity despite lacking scientific merit. The process involves inserting a hollow candle inside of the ear canal and igniting the opposite end, with the idea that a vacuum is created, pulling out impurities. However, several studies have debunked this practice, highlighting its ineffectiveness and potential risks.
Not only does ear candling fail to eliminate earwax effectively, but it also poses considerable risks. Burns to the sensitive ear structures, perforated eardrums, and exacerbation of existing problems can all be consequences of this practice. Also, the residue left behind after ear candling often consists of candle wax and debris as opposed to extracted earwax.
In light of these findings, medical experts universally warn against the use of ear candling. Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) warn against this practice, emphasizing safer methods for ear hygiene.
Get rid of the cotton swabs
It’s true that many people turn to these apparently innocuous tools to clean earwax out of their ears. But there are more dangers than benefits to inserting a cotton swab into your ear canal. Impaction and potential injury can be the outcome of using cotton swabs rather than actually cleaning out earwax.
The sensitive nature of the eardrum makes it susceptible to damage from foreign objects, including cotton swabs. Injuries, like perforations or abrasions can happen, leading to pain, infection, and hearing impairment. 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 mechanisms or seek professional assistance if necessary.
Keep volumes to a minimum
In an increasingly noisy world, our ears are continuously inundated by sounds of varying volumes. Exposure to loud noise is unavoidable, from attending sporting events and concerts to strolling down busy city streets to mowing your lawn. However, sustained or excessive exposure can have harmful effects on auditory health, resulting in noise-induced hearing loss or tinnitus.
To minimize the risk of hearing damage, it is essential to be conscious of sound levels and take proactive steps to safeguard your ears. Whenever you can’t steer clear of very loud noise, protection such as earplugs and earmuffs should be utilized.
Also, take frequent breaks and moderate the volume when you’re utilizing personal listening devices such as headphones and earpods.
Listen to your ears: act quickly on symptoms
Taking fast action when your ears begin to tell you that you’re starting to encounter some degree of hearing loss is critical to protect your ears from damage. Despite the availability of advanced treatments, including hearing aids, delaying intervention can worsen hearing loss and complicate treatment.
It is imperative to identify 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. Make an appointment with us as soon as possible if you experience any of these symptoms. Early detection and intervention can substantially improve results and improve your quality of life.
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 suspect that you might be experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss, call us today for an appointment.