The ear is an important yet often overlooked body part regarding self-care routines. Proper ear cleaning is very important for maintaining healthy ears and avoiding various ear problems such as infections, ear blockages, and even damage to the eardrum.
Cotton buds or cotton swabs are ear cleaners that many people often use. However, doctors and ENT specialists do not recommend using cotton buds to clean ears.
Along with the increasing awareness of ear health, many people are looking for alternatives to clean their ears other than using cotton buds. Besides being ineffective in cleaning earwax, excessive use of cotton buds can also cause damage to the ear and even exacerbate existing problems. The following are why cotton buds are not recommended for cleaning ears.
The reason for using cotton buds to clean ears is not recommended
1. Worsening ear congestion
Using cotton buds to clean your ears can make ear congestion worse. This is because cotton buds can push earwax into the deeper ear canals, making removing it more difficult.
2. Triggers infection
Using an unclean or contaminated cotton bud can trigger an ear infection. In addition, when a cotton swab is used to clean the ear, the cotton part used can leave fibers in the ear canal, which can cause irritation or infection.
3. Damage the eardrum
Using a cotton bud incorrectly or going too deep can damage the eardrum. When a cotton swab is inserted too deep into the ear canal, it can damage the eardrum and cause pain, deafness, and even permanent damage.
So what to do if you want to clean your ears safely? The following are some ear-cleaning tools other than cotton buds that can be used to clean earwax safely:
Another alternative ear cleaner
Ear drops
Ear drops are special solutions that are used to help soften and remove hard earwax. These products are generally made from natural ingredients such as olive or mineral oil. The trick is to put a few drops of the solution into the ear and leave it for a few minutes, then remove it by soaking a cotton swab in warm water and removing the softened earwax.
Ear syringes
An ear syringe is an ear-cleaning tool used by doctors and ENT specialists. This tool can help clean hard earwax and reach parts of the ear that are hard to reach. However, an ear syringe must be used by a trained person, such as a doctor or nurse.
Ear spoons
An ear spoon is an ear-cleaning tool made of stainless steel or plastic, which Asian people commonly use. This tool has a wide and flat tip, so it can help remove earwax without injuring the ear's eardrum or sensitive parts. However, make sure to buy a quality and harmless ear spoon.
Remember always to maintain the moisture balance of the ear and keep the inner and outer ear clean correctly. Remember that the ear is a sensitive part of the body and needs to be treated with care. Don't ignore signs of ear problems; consult a doctor immediately if you experience any abnormal symptoms.