Baby Hearing Concerns: Earwax, Safety, and White Noise Effects

Baby Hearing

Hello, Doctor.
My baby occasionally has earwax near the ear canal and auricle, and I use a damp cotton swab to clean it.
However, a few days ago, while I was cleaning, my baby suddenly moved his face from side to side, and I was worried that the cotton swab might have accidentally poked his ear canal or eardrum.
My baby did not cry at that moment or afterward, and he still responds to both loud and soft sounds.
I'm not sure if I need to perform any self-checks to monitor whether he needs to see a doctor.
Additionally, my baby is now five months old and has been listening to white noise from rain sounds at night since he was over three months old.
If the volume is appropriate, will long-term exposure have any negative effects on his hearing? Thank you, Doctor.

yi wei ma ma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/08

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

If there are blood streaks on the cotton swab, it indicates that the ear canal or eardrum may have been injured.
If there is a noticeable injury to the external ear canal, it is generally uncomfortable and may cause crying or fussiness, requiring medical evaluation.
If the injury is minor, it will typically heal on its own without concern.
A ruptured eardrum can affect hearing, and a simple test is to observe the response to sound.
Additionally, if there is significant inflammation following an injury to the ear canal or eardrum, there may be discharge from the ear canal, and prompt medical evaluation is necessary.

Reply Date: 2021/09/08

More Info

When it comes to caring for your baby's hearing, there are several important considerations regarding earwax management, potential risks associated with cleaning methods, and the effects of white noise on auditory health.

Firstly, regarding earwax, it's important to understand that earwax (cerumen) plays a protective role in the ear canal. It helps to trap dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. In most cases, the ear is self-cleaning, and excessive cleaning can lead to irritation or injury. Using cotton swabs to clean your baby's ears can be risky. If your baby suddenly moved during cleaning, there is a possibility that the cotton swab could have inadvertently pushed wax deeper into the ear canal or, in a worst-case scenario, caused injury to the ear canal or eardrum.
If your baby is not showing any signs of distress, such as crying or unusual behavior, and is responding to sounds normally, it is likely that no serious injury has occurred. However, you should monitor for any signs of ear infection, which can include unusual discharge from the ear, persistent fussiness, or changes in hearing. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if you have any concerns, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician for a thorough examination.

As for the use of white noise, such as rain sounds, many parents use white noise machines to help their babies sleep. When used at a safe volume, white noise can be beneficial for infants, as it can mask other disruptive sounds and create a soothing environment. However, it is crucial to ensure that the volume is kept at a reasonable level. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that sounds should not exceed 50 decibels, which is roughly the sound level of a quiet conversation. Prolonged exposure to loud sounds can potentially lead to hearing loss over time, even in infants.
If you are using a white noise machine, place it at a distance from the crib and keep the volume low. It is also a good idea to limit the duration of exposure to white noise, allowing periods of silence to promote natural auditory development. Babies benefit from hearing a variety of sounds, including silence, as it helps them learn to distinguish different auditory cues.

In summary, while earwax is typically harmless and should not be aggressively cleaned, caution should be exercised when using cotton swabs. Monitor your baby for any signs of ear issues, and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns. Regarding white noise, ensure it is used at a safe volume and for limited periods to protect your baby's hearing while still providing a calming sleep environment. Always prioritize your baby's comfort and safety, and don't hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician for personalized advice.

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