Why Does My Hearing Feel Diminished After Ear Cleaning? - Otolaryngology

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Experiencing diminished hearing after ear cleaning can be concerning, and it’s important to understand the potential reasons behind this sensation. Based on the information provided, it seems that you underwent a procedure to remove earwax, and during this process, your ear canal was found to be red and swollen. The doctor also applied medication using a cotton swab, which may have contributed to your current sensation of reduced hearing.

There are several factors that could explain why your hearing feels diminished after the cleaning:
1. Swelling and Inflammation: If your ear canal was red and swollen, this inflammation can lead to a temporary blockage or narrowing of the ear canal, which can affect your hearing. Swelling can occur due to irritation from the cleaning process itself or from the presence of earwax. When the ear canal is inflamed, sound waves may not transmit as effectively to the eardrum, leading to a sensation of muffled hearing.

2. Residual Earwax: Even after cleaning, it’s possible that some earwax remains in the ear canal. If the earwax is impacted or if it has been pushed deeper into the canal during the cleaning, it can obstruct sound transmission, resulting in a feeling of diminished hearing.

3. Fluid Accumulation: Sometimes, during the cleaning process, moisture can be introduced into the ear canal, especially if water or cleaning solutions are used. This moisture can temporarily affect hearing until it evaporates or drains away.

4. Eardrum Sensitivity: If the cotton swab was inserted deeply, it could have caused some irritation to the eardrum or the surrounding structures. While it’s unlikely that a cotton swab would cause a perforation of the eardrum, it can still lead to temporary changes in how sound is perceived.

5. Middle Ear Pressure Changes: The process of cleaning the ear can sometimes affect the pressure in the middle ear, especially if the Eustachian tube (which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat) is affected. Changes in pressure can lead to a sensation of fullness or diminished hearing.

Given that you have experienced a change in your hearing, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a thorough examination to determine if there is any residual earwax, fluid, or other issues that may be affecting your hearing.
In summary, while it’s not uncommon to experience temporary changes in hearing after ear cleaning, especially if there is swelling or inflammation, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms. If the diminished hearing persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain, discharge, or other concerning symptoms, seeking medical attention is crucial. Your healthcare provider can offer appropriate interventions to restore your hearing and address any underlying issues.