Maintaining good ear hygiene helps protect your overall ear health, which can impact your hearing and ENT health. Ears are naturally self-cleaning, but there are important practices to follow that can help keep them healthy. Consider the following when it comes to best practices for healthy ears.
Cleaning Your Ears Safely
It’s a common misconception that ears need frequent cleaning. The ear canal is self-cleaning and naturally expels earwax via jaw movements. However, sometimes ear wax can become impacted. Inserting objects like cotton swabs to clean the ear can push wax into the ear canal, become stuck in the ear canal or damage sensitive tissues.
Instead of using cotton swabs, clean the outer part of your ears with a soft cloth. If you notice excessive earwax buildup, consider using over-the-counter ear drops designed to soften wax. However, if you feel discomfort or suspect an earwax blockage, consult an ENT for safe removal of earwax, as consulting a doctor is always the safest method for removal.
Drying Your Ears Properly
Keeping your ears dry is a helpful step for preventing infections. Moisture in the ear canal can create an environment conducive to bacterial or fungal growth, resulting in otitis media, or an ear infection.
After swimming or bathing, gently dry your ears with a soft towel. Tilt your head to help water drain out of the ear canal. Consider wearing earplugs when participating in activities like swimming at Fort Wayne YMCA.
Avoid inserting objects into your ears to dry them, as this can push debris further in and cause irritation. If you experience persistent moisture or discomfort, especially if you notice any symptoms of infection like itching or discharge, consult an ENT.
Protecting Your Ears
Protecting your ears from excessive noise and physical damage is essential for long-term hearing health. If you’re exposed to loud environments through work or hobbies, such as construction sites or concert venues, wear ear protection like earplugs or earmuffs. Take frequent breaks from prolonged noise exposure. This helps prevent noise-induced hearing loss, which can be permanent.
For those who use earbuds or headphones, keep the volume at a moderate level and take regular breaks to avoid straining your hearing. If possible, opt for over-the-ear headphones as opposed to ear buds.
While most ear issues can be managed with basic hygiene practices, there are times when it’s necessary to see a doctor. Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent ear pain or discomfort
- Unusual discharge or bleeding from the ear
- Sudden hearing loss or a feeling of fullness in the ear
- Frequent ear infections or a buildup of earwax
An ENT doctor can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions if needed.
Good ear hygiene involves more than just cleaning your ears; it’s also about protecting your hearing. By following these best practices, you can maintain healthy ears. To learn more about how healthy ears have an impact on your overall ENT health, contact Ear, Nose & Throat Associates to schedule an appointment today.