Unusual Ear Membrane Vibrations and Earwax Removal

Q: Unusual Ear Membrane Vibrations and Earwax Removal

Hello： Currently, the cause is unknown. <br>Structurally, the left and right ears are separate, but it is advised not to over-clean the ears. <br>A small amount of earwax can protect the external auditory canal. <br>Clinically, excessive cleaning often leads to external auditory

The eardrum is easily vibrated?

Hello Dr.
Zheng: I have noticed a peculiar phenomenon while cleaning my ears, which I have found quite astonishing for many years.
I would like to ask you about the reason behind this.
My right ear canal is noticeably shallower than my left.
If I repeatedly use a cotton swab to clean my right ear and apply pressure to the right eardrum, then switch to my left ear, I find that when I quickly pull the cotton swab out of my left ear, the right eardrum vibrates violently at that very moment.
Of course, this only happens if I pull out the swab with enough force; if I do it too gently or slowly, there is no movement.
I can shake my head vigorously without causing any vibration, but the right eardrum only vibrates when the cotton swab is swiftly removed from the left ear.
Conversely, if I pull the swab out of the right ear, the left eardrum does not vibrate.
Structurally, the eardrums should be quite far apart and completely separate, right? Could the negative pressure causing the vibration be transmitted through the Eustachian tubes on both sides? I kindly ask for your analysis and clarification.
Additionally, I often read articles advising against excessive or forceful ear cleaning, as it may damage hearing.
However, I have been cleaning my ears since childhood, doing so every two to three days with considerable force, but I am careful not to cause injury.
Each time, I manage to clean out the earwax thoroughly.
When I visit an otolaryngologist, they can clearly see that my entire ear canal to the eardrum is completely free of any wax.
I feel that each time I clean my ears, my hearing improves and becomes clearer.
I have taken online high-frequency and low-frequency hearing tests, and compared to five years ago, there has been no decline in my hearing.
Is it possible that if ear cleaning is done properly, it could enhance blood circulation in the eardrum and thus help maintain hearing? Thank you, doctor!

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/25

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: Currently, the cause is unknown.
Structurally, the left and right ears are separate, but it is advised not to over-clean the ears.
A small amount of earwax can protect the external auditory canal.
Clinically, excessive cleaning often leads to external auditory canal inflammation or other symptoms.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/12/25

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your intriguing question regarding the unusual phenomenon you experience with your ear membranes and earwax removal. Let's break down your observations and concerns.

First, the phenomenon where you notice your right eardrum vibrating when you quickly remove a cotton swab from your left ear is indeed fascinating. The human auditory system is complex, and while the left and right ears are anatomically separate, they are interconnected through various pathways. One possible explanation for the vibration you observe could be related to the pressure changes in the ear canal and the middle ear. When you rapidly remove the cotton swab from your left ear, it may create a sudden change in pressure that is transmitted through the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nasopharynx. This pressure change could potentially affect the right ear, causing the eardrum to vibrate.
Another factor to consider is the phenomenon of "cross-talk" between the ears. The auditory system is designed to process sounds from both ears, and sometimes, actions in one ear can influence sensations in the other. However, the extent of this influence can vary from person to person.

Regarding your earwax removal habits, it is generally advised to be cautious when cleaning your ears. While you may feel that frequent cleaning enhances your hearing, excessive or forceful cleaning can lead to several issues. The ear canal is self-cleaning, and earwax (cerumen) serves important functions, including protecting the ear from dust, debris, and microorganisms. Over-cleaning can disrupt this natural process and may lead to irritation, inflammation, or even perforation of the eardrum if done improperly.

In your case, you mentioned that you have been cleaning your ears frequently since childhood without apparent negative effects on your hearing. It's important to note that individual experiences can vary widely. Some people may have a higher tolerance for ear cleaning, while others may develop problems from similar practices.
As for your question about whether proper ear cleaning could improve blood circulation in the eardrum and thus benefit hearing, there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim. The eardrum's blood supply is primarily from the surrounding tissues, and while maintaining a clean ear canal is important, it does not necessarily enhance circulation to the eardrum itself.
If you are not experiencing any pain, discomfort, or hearing loss, and if your ears are regularly checked by a healthcare professional, you may continue your current practices. However, it would be wise to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist if you notice any changes in your hearing or if you experience discomfort during ear cleaning.
In summary, while your observations about ear pressure and the effects of ear cleaning are interesting, it is essential to approach ear hygiene with care. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms change, please seek professional medical advice. Thank you for your question, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns!

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