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Although many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, it is common to see warnings about the product’s risks to hearing.
Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but is it ideal? Photo Freepik
Whether to relieve an itch or discomfort, or to clean their ears daily, many people use cotton swabs.
However, it is also common to see warnings about the product’s lack of efficiency or even dangers. After all, can you use a cotton swab or not?
To use a cotton swab or not? that is the question
According to Dr. Ariane Gonçalves, audiologist at the AudioFisa clinic, hearing specialist and author of the book Uncomplicating Hearing Loss, cotton swabs can be useful for removing wax visible on the outside of the ear.
“However, they are not recommended for insertion into the ear canal as they can push the wax further in, cause damage to the eardrum or even lead to infections.”
“Therefore, its use for internal ear cleaning is not recommended”, highlights the specialist.
How to clean your ears?
According to her, the best way to clean your ears is through external methods, such as gently cleaning with a damp towel around the ear.
“Earwax naturally migrates out of the ear canal, so it is enough to clean it when it is visible on the outside.”
“It is important to avoid using sharp objects or cotton swabs into the ear”, emphasizes the audiologist.
The professional also highlights that earwax is a natural substance that has the function of protecting the ear canal, preventing the entry of dirt and microorganisms.
“Excessive or aggressive wax removal can cause problems. Therefore, ear cleaning should be done carefully and only when necessary.”
“Furthermore, you should never introduce foreign objects, such as cotton swabs, into the ear canal”, he reinforces.
Signs that your ear needs cleaning
According to Ariane, some symptoms may show that your ear needs deeper cleaning. Are they:
– Decreased hearing;
– Feeling of stuffiness;
– Itch;
– Ear pain;
– Unusual discharge.
“If any of these symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult a doctor specializing in ears, nose and throat (otolaryngologist) for evaluation and possible cleaning”, concludes the professional.
*Information Health in Day
