A leading doctor has issued a stark warning about a common habit that could be seriously damaging your ears. Many people unknowingly put their hearing at risk by using items that should never go near their ear canals.
The Dangerous Habit You Need to Stop
According to medical professionals, one of the worst things you can do to your ears is using cotton buds or other small objects to clean them. "People think they're helping by removing wax, but they're actually pushing most of it deeper into the ear canal," explains the doctor.
Why This Practice Is Harmful
The ear has a natural self-cleaning mechanism, and inserting objects can:
- Push wax deeper, causing blockages
- Scratch the delicate ear canal
- Increase risk of infections
- Potentially damage the eardrum
Safe Alternatives for Ear Care
Instead of using cotton buds, experts recommend:
- Letting your ears clean themselves naturally
- Using a damp cloth to clean the outer ear
- Seeking professional help if you have excessive wax
- Considering doctor-approved ear drops if needed
Remember: Your ears are delicate instruments that generally don't need manual cleaning. If you're experiencing discomfort or hearing loss, always consult a medical professional rather than attempting DIY solutions.
