Experts Warn: Cotton Buds Can Damage Your Ears
Cotton buds may look harmless, but experts warn that using them to clean your ears can be dangerous. They can push the earwax deeper into the ear canal instead of removing it. As a result, this pressure can cause pain, discomfort, and even temporary hearing issues.
Doctors explain that earwax is not something to remove completely. It actually protects the ears by trapping dust, dirt, and germs. However, when you use cotton buds, you risk damaging sensitive parts of your ear, including the eardrum and tiny hearing bones. This damage can lead to hearing loss or a constant ringing sound known as tinnitus.
Why Earwax Is Important
Earwax, or cerumen, is your ear’s natural defense system. It keeps your ears clean and prevents infections. Normally, earwax moves outward naturally and falls off when you wash your ears externally. Therefore, experts say you only need to clean the outer ear gently with a soft cloth.
Many people think they need to clean inside their ears regularly, but that’s a myth. The inner ear is self-cleaning and does not need any manual cleaning. Using cotton buds or sharp objects can scratch the ear canal or rupture the eardrum, which may cause serious pain or infection.
Safe Ways to Clean Your Ears
If you feel your ears are blocked or notice excessive wax buildup, consult a doctor before trying home remedies. For mild blockage, doctors often recommend ear drops that soften the wax. You can also use gentle flushing with clean, lukewarm water.
However, if you experience continuous pain, discharge, or hearing loss, seek medical help immediately. Ignoring these symptoms can worsen the problem. In short, avoid cotton buds, clean only the outer ear, and let your ears take care of the rest naturally.
