Is Water in Your Ears Safe? Ear Cleaning Practices - Otolaryngology

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Issues related to ear canal cleaning?


I usually have a habit of letting water flow into both ears until it reaches the eardrum while showering, holding it for a few seconds, and then letting it flow out several times.
This makes my ears feel fresher.
Could this have any impact on my ears, eardrum, or hearing? Thank you!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/03/02

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology


Generally, there is no impact if there is no otitis media or tympanic membrane perforation.
Dr.
Yeh Da-wei, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology at Hsinchu Hospital.

Reply Date: 2008/03/02

More Info


When it comes to cleaning your ears and the safety of water exposure during activities like showering, it's essential to understand the anatomy of the ear and the potential risks involved. The ear is divided into three main parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The outer ear includes the ear canal, which leads to the eardrum (or tympanic membrane). The middle ear contains the ossicles (tiny bones) and is connected to the throat via the Eustachian tube, while the inner ear is responsible for hearing and balance.

Your practice of allowing water to flow into your ears while showering is not uncommon, and many people do this to feel a sense of cleanliness. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind regarding this practice.

1. Risk of Infection: Water entering the ear canal can potentially introduce bacteria or fungi, especially if the water is not clean. This can lead to conditions like swimmer's ear (otitis externa), which is an infection of the outer ear canal. Symptoms may include itching, redness, swelling, and discharge from the ear. If you experience pain, discomfort, or any discharge after exposing your ears to water, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Eardrum Integrity: If your eardrum is intact and there are no existing ear infections, allowing water to flow into the ear canal generally does not pose a significant risk. However, if you have a history of eardrum perforation or other ear conditions, you should avoid getting water in your ears, as it can exacerbate these issues.

3. Hearing and Pressure Changes: Some individuals may experience a sensation of pressure or fullness in the ears when water enters. This is often due to the Eustachian tube's inability to equalize pressure effectively. If you notice persistent pressure or discomfort, it may be worth discussing with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.

4. Cleaning Practices: While it may feel refreshing to let water flow in and out of your ears, it's important to note that the ear canal is self-cleaning. The skin in the ear canal produces earwax (cerumen), which helps trap dust and debris and has antibacterial properties. Using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal can push wax further in and potentially cause blockages or damage to the eardrum.

5. Alternative Methods: If you are concerned about moisture in your ears after showering, consider using a towel to gently dry the outer ear. You can also tilt your head to each side to help any trapped water escape. If water remains trapped, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting held at a safe distance to help evaporate the moisture. However, avoid using high heat, as this can cause burns or discomfort.

In summary, while allowing water to flow into your ears during a shower is generally safe for most individuals, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential risks, especially regarding infections and eardrum integrity. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your ear health, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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