Is Daily Ear Cleaning Safe? Expert Advice on Ear Hygiene

Q: Is Daily Ear Cleaning Safe? Expert Advice on Ear Hygiene

Hello： The condition commonly referred to as "wet ears" is known as oily earwax. <br>It is not recommended to use cotton swabs for cleaning, as they often push the earwax further inside, leading to impaction. <br>The external auditory canal has a self-cleaning mechanism, so it is

Ear cleaning issues?

Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about ear cleaning.
I have wet ears and I almost clean them with cotton swabs every day.
A few days ago, I read online that it's better not to use cotton swabs.
However, I have never removed any solid earwax, and I'm not sure if using regular ear picks is appropriate.
Additionally, I have never experienced ear pain or tinnitus due to this situation; I've just been cleaning my ears this way since I was a child.
I would like to understand if this is not advisable.
Thank you, Doctor!

Xin Xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/05

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: The condition commonly referred to as "wet ears" is known as oily earwax.
It is not recommended to use cotton swabs for cleaning, as they often push the earwax further inside, leading to impaction.
The external auditory canal has a self-cleaning mechanism, so it is advisable to simply observe the condition.
If you wish to use a metal ear scoop, be cautious to avoid injuring the external auditory canal, or you may visit a clinic for a physician to perform the cleaning.
Wishing you safety and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/03/05

More Info

Daily ear cleaning is a common practice for many people, but it is essential to understand the implications and best practices for ear hygiene. The ear is a self-cleaning organ, and in most cases, it does not require frequent cleaning. In fact, using cotton swabs or ear picks can lead to more harm than good.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that the ear canal produces earwax (cerumen) as a natural defense mechanism. Earwax serves several purposes: it protects the ear canal from dust, debris, and microorganisms, and it also helps to lubricate the skin of the ear canal. The ear has a self-cleaning mechanism where the movement of the jaw (such as talking and chewing) helps to move earwax out of the ear canal naturally. Therefore, for most individuals, daily cleaning is unnecessary.

Using cotton swabs to clean the ears can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, potentially leading to impaction. This can cause discomfort, hearing loss, and even infections. In some cases, aggressive cleaning can damage the delicate skin of the ear canal or even perforate the eardrum, which can lead to serious complications. It is also worth noting that if you are not experiencing any symptoms such as pain, itching, or hearing loss, it is likely that your ear hygiene is adequate without the need for daily cleaning.

If you feel the need to clean your ears, it is advisable to use safer alternatives. For instance, you can use a damp washcloth to clean the outer ear. If you notice excessive earwax buildup, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can safely remove earwax using specialized tools and techniques.

For individuals who have wet ears or produce more earwax, it is crucial to monitor for any signs of infection or blockage. Symptoms such as ear pain, discharge, or changes in hearing should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. Additionally, if you are concerned about your ear hygiene practices, it is always a good idea to discuss this with a medical professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

In summary, while it may be tempting to clean your ears daily, it is generally not necessary and can lead to complications. The ear is designed to clean itself, and excessive cleaning can disrupt this natural process. If you have concerns about earwax buildup or ear hygiene, consider consulting with an ENT specialist for guidance. Remember, maintaining ear health is about balance and understanding how your body functions.

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