Learn to clean your ears safely and avoid possible complications with our step by step guide. Keep your ears healthy and free of waste.

Proper hygiene of the ears is essential to keep them healthy and avoid possible complications, such as cerum retention or infections. Knowing how to clean your ears safely is essential to avoid damage to the delicate internal structures of the ear. Although it may be tempting to use cotton sticks or other makeshift utensils, it is important to know that they may be more harmful than beneficial. Here are some tips and precautions backed by experts that will help you clean your ears safely.

1. Avoid introducing cotton sticks or other strange objects in the auditory duct: this is perhaps the most important rule of ears cleaning. Introducing cotton sticks, forks or any other object in the ears can cause the wax to penetrate more deeply into the external auditory duct, which can cause its impact or injuries.
2. Use drops for ears: if you experience excessive accumulation of earwax or discomfort, consider the possibility of using drops for sales ears without a medical recipe, specifically designed to soften and loosen the wax. Follow the product instructions carefully and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
3. Gently clean the outer ear: the outer part of the ear, called atrial pavilion, can be cleaned safely with a hot and hot cloth. A soft soap can be used, but it should be clear to prevent any residue from penetrating the auditory duct.

Expert advice: “Ears cleanGo to a qualified health professional. “

The Importance of Ear Hygiene

Cleaning the ears regularly is crucial to avoid the accumulation of earwax, waste and dirt, which can cause various problems, such as hearing loss or discomfort. The ears produce cemers naturally, commonly known as matches, to protect the delicate structures inside the auditory duct. However, excessive accumulation of earwax can cause obstructions and reduce auditory capacity.

“It is essential to avoid the use of cotton sticks or other utensils to clean the auditory duct, since they can push the earwax more deeply and potentially damage the eardrum. Instead, people must trust soft cleaning methods recommended by health professionals”

Proper hygiene of the ears includes periodic cleaning with safe and effective methods. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to ensure that appropriate techniques are followed. By giving priority to ear hygiene, people can maintain healthy ears and minimize the risk of complications that may affect their audition and their quality of life in general.

Understanding the anatomy of the ear

Broadly speaking, the ear can be divided into three main sections: the outer ear, the middle ear and the internal ear. Each section plays a different function in auditory and vestibular systems. Let’s analyze these sections in more detail:

Outer ear:

The outer ear is what we usually see on the side of the head. This part of the ear collects the sound waves and directs them towards the eardrum. The external ear consists of the following components

• Auricular pavilion (ear pavilion): It is the visible part of the outer ear and consists of a cartilag e-coated structure that helps to capture the sound waves.
• External auditory duct: narrow tub e-shaped duct that connects the atrial pavilion with the eardrum. It is covered with soft skin and also plays a crucial role in sound transmission.
• Timpanic (tympanic membrane): fine and sensitive membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. Vibrates in response to sound waves and transmits these vibrations inside the ear.

Note: The outer ear is susceptible to the accumulation of wax, which can affect hearing. The cleaning of the outer ear should be carried out with caution to avoid damaging the delicate structures and pushing the wax more inside the duct.

Middle ear:

The middle ear is located between the eardrum and the inner ear. It includes a small cavity in the temporal bone and contains three cars: the hammer, the anvil and the stirrup. These bones play a fundamental role in the transmission and amplification of sound. The middle ear also includes the Basque trunk, responsible for matching the pressure between the middle ear and the environment.

Inner ear:

The inner ear is a complex structure responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. It consists of two main components: the cochlea and the vestibular system. The cochlea is responsible for hearing, while the vestibular system is crucial for balance and spatial orientation.

Note: Proper understanding of ear anatomy is essential to maintaining ear health and ensuring safe cleaning practices. It is essential to avoid introducing objects into the external auditory canal to avoid damaging the eardrum or other delicate structures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Ears

1. Using Cotton Swabs or Q-tips

Using cotton buds or Q-tips to clean the inside of your ears may seem like a quick and easy method, but it can be extremely damaging. The ear canal is a delicate and sensitive part of the ear, and inserting any object can push earwax deeper or even cause damage to the ear canal. Additionally, cotton swabs can also leave behind fibers that can get stuck in the ear, creating a blockage or increasing the risk of infection.

2. Overcleaning the Ears

Although it is important to clean your ears regularly, overdoing it can be just as harmful as neglecting them. The ear produces wax as a natural defense mechanism to protect the ear canal and trap dust, debris, and bacteria. Excessive cleansing can upset this natural balance and cause dryness, irritation and inflammation. It is generally recommended to clean the ears once a week or when advised by a healthcare professional.

Important: It is important to keep in mind that the ear is self-cleaning and does not usually require frequent manual cleaning. The outside of the ear can be gently wiped with a clean cloth, but the inside should not be touched unless there is a specific medical need or under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Overall, it is essential to approach ear cleaning with caution and avoid these common mistakes. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for advice on proper ear cleaning techniques and to address any questions to ensure optimal ear health.

Safe Methods for Cleaning the External Ear

1. Gentle washing: One of the safest and most effective methods to clean the outer ear is to gently wash it with warm water. Avoid using excessive force or inserting any object into the ear canal, as this can push the wax deeper and cause impaction. Fill a clean basin or cup with warm water and tilt your head to one side. Use a clean cloth or fingertips to gently wash the outer ear, avoiding the ear canal. Dry with a clean towel.

Note: It is important to avoid using cotton swabs or Q-tips to clean the ear canal, as they can push wax deeper or cause injury to the delicate ear structures. Also, avoid using sharp objects or paper clips as they can puncture the eardrum and cause serious damage. Always prioritize gentle, non-invasive methods to clean the outer ear.

2. Effective drying: After washing the outer ear, it is essential to dry it well to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to fungal or bacterial infections. Gently pat the ear with a clean towel or use a hair dryer on the lowest, coolest setting, keeping it at least a hand’s breadth away from the ear. Avoid using cotton swabs or inserting objects into the ear canal to dry it.

By following these safe and proper methods for cleaning the outer ear, you can maintain good ear hygiene, prevent infections and discomfort, and ensure the overall health of your ears.

When to Seek Professional Help for Ear Cleaning

If you experience any of the following situations, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional:

1. Persistent or worsening earwax buildup: If you consistently notice excessive earwax buildup despite regular cleaning, it may indicate an underlying problem that requires professional attention. It could be due to anatomical abnormalities or other ear conditions.
2. Pain or Discomfort: If you experience pain, discomfort, or a feeling of fullness in your ears that does not improve with home remedies, it is advisable to seek help from a medical expert. These symptoms may suggest an infection, injury, or a foreign object lodged in the ear.
3. Audition changes: sudden or gradual changes in auditory capacity should not be ignored. If you notice a decrease in auditory capacity or a feeling of damping sounds, it is essential that you consult a professional to have an exhaustive exam.

Note: It is important to resist the temptation to introduce objects into the ears, such as cotton sticks or hair forks, since this can push the earwax more deeply or cause injuries to the delicate hearing structures. This can further complicate the situation and cause more serious problems.

Remember that if you are not sure of your ears or feel any discomfort, it is best to go to a qualified healthcare professional. They have the experience and tools necessary to clean their ears safely and effectively, guaranteeing their general hearing health.

Tips for Preventing Earwax Buildup

• Keep the dry ears: humidity can contribute to the accumulation of earwax. After swimming or bathing, be sure to dry your ears with a similar absorbent towel or material.
• Avoid the use of cotton sticks: although it may be tempting to clean your ears with cotton rods, they can push the earwax into the auditory duct and obstruct it. Instead, use a soft cloth to gently clean the outer part of the ears.
• Use natural oils: to prevent the earwax hardening and accumulating, you can try to use natural oils such as baby oil, mineral oil or glycerin. Applying a few drops of oil in the ear can soften the wax and facilitate its elimination.

Note: It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using oils in the ears, especially if you have a history of ear problems or if pain or loss of audition is experienced.

In addition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help prevent the accumulation of cerum. A balanced diet, regular exercise and good hydration can contribute to the general health of the ears. If it is prone to excessive cerum production, it is advisable to undergo routine reviews with a medical professional who can control and treat the condition if necessary.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont