Ear Cleaning Risks: When to Seek Medical Attention

Issues related to ear cleaning?

Hello, doctor.
Earlier today, my ear was itchy, so I used a thin cotton swab to clean it.
While my mom was talking to me, I accidentally pushed it a bit deeper and felt like I might have touched the inner wall of my ear.
When I took it out, I saw some earwax.
Now I'm worried that I might have accidentally punctured my eardrum without realizing it.
I want to know if a ruptured eardrum would cause any sensation.
Currently, I don't have tinnitus, my hearing seems normal, and there's no bleeding.
I read online that if I take a deep breath and blow it out through my nose, I shouldn't feel any air coming out of my ear, which makes me think I might not need to worry.
However, when I do this, I do hear a slight, indescribable sound in both ears, and sometimes when I exert pressure, I feel a sound coming from inside my ear, but I think that might be normal.
I'm unsure if there's a problem.
Should I go to the emergency room, or is it unnecessary? What symptoms would indicate a rupture? My family says they also hear that sound when they blow their nose or exert pressure, and they advised me not to go to the emergency room unnecessarily.
I'm planning to visit a nearby pediatric clinic on Monday to see if they have an ENT specialist available, but I'm not sure if I can be seen there at my age since it's primarily a pediatric clinic.
I hope to receive professional advice.

Helen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/19

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on your description, there are no specific symptoms, and since your hearing is not impaired, it is likely that your eardrum has not been damaged.
If you are still concerned and would like to have an examination, you can visit an otolaryngology clinic, as they have the necessary equipment to check the middle ear.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/06/19

More Info

When it comes to ear cleaning, it's essential to understand the risks involved and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems you have concerns about potentially damaging your eardrum while using a cotton swab. Let's break down the situation and provide some guidance.

First and foremost, it's important to note that the ear is a delicate structure. The eardrum, or tympanic membrane, is a thin layer that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. If you accidentally poke or push too hard with a cotton swab, there is a risk of perforating the eardrum. However, many people use cotton swabs without any issues, as long as they are careful and do not insert them too deeply.

In your case, you mentioned that you felt a slight discomfort but did not experience any bleeding, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or hearing loss. These are good signs, as they indicate that you may not have caused any significant damage. Typically, if the eardrum is perforated, you might experience symptoms such as:
1. Sudden sharp pain: This can occur at the moment of injury.

2. Fluid drainage: You may notice clear, yellow, or bloody fluid coming from the ear.

3. Hearing loss: This can vary from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the damage.

4. Tinnitus: A ringing or buzzing sound in the ear may occur.

Since you do not have any of these symptoms, it is likely that your eardrum is intact. The sounds you hear when you hold your breath and try to equalize pressure in your ears are normal. This phenomenon is often related to the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure. If you feel a sensation of fullness or hear popping sounds, it is usually not a cause for concern unless accompanied by pain or hearing changes.

Regarding your plan to visit a pediatrician, it is a good idea, especially if you have ongoing concerns. Pediatricians can assess ear health and may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist if necessary. If you are experiencing persistent itching or discomfort, it could indicate an earwax buildup or an infection, which would require professional evaluation.

In general, here are some recommendations for safe ear cleaning practices:
1. Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal: Cotton swabs, hairpins, and other objects can push wax deeper or injure the ear.

2. Use a damp cloth: You can clean the outer ear with a soft, damp cloth.

3. Consider ear drops: If you have excessive earwax, over-the-counter ear drops can help soften it for easier removal.

4. Seek professional help: If you suspect a blockage or have symptoms like pain, hearing loss, or discharge, consult a healthcare provider.

In summary, while it's understandable to be concerned about ear health, your current symptoms do not suggest a serious issue. However, if you continue to feel uneasy or if any new symptoms arise, don't hesitate to seek medical attention. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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