What should I do if tinnitus suddenly occurs after cleaning my ears?
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Sudden tinnitus after ear cleaning suggests traumatic tympanic membrane perforation. You can gently pinch your nose and observe whether air leaks from the ear. A hissing sound indicates an actual perforation. If tinnitus occurs, visit a hospital for otoscopic examination to assess for abnormalities in the ear, followed by targeted treatment. During ear cleaning, earwax or debris may inadvertently be pushed into the tympanic membrane.
The so-called “earwax” (cerumen) in the ear canal typically sheds naturally and does not require manual removal. However, in individuals with narrower ear canals, cerumen may become impacted and fail to dislodge spontaneously—potentially leading to sudden tinnitus following ear cleaning. So, what should one do if tinnitus occurs suddenly after cleaning the ears?
What to Do If Sudden Tinnitus Occurs After Ear Cleaning
Sudden tinnitus following ear cleaning is often due to traumatic tympanic membrane perforation. You may try gently pinching your nose and attempting to “pop” your ears; if you hear a faint hissing or whistling sound, this suggests an actual perforation of the eardrum.
If tinnitus persists, consult an otolaryngologist for otoscopic examination to assess for abnormalities and receive targeted treatment. During ear cleaning, earwax or debris may inadvertently be pushed against the tympanic membrane, triggering tinnitus. Moreover, excessive or overly forceful cleaning may cause tympanic membrane perforation and subsequent tinnitus. Therefore, avoid further ear cleaning temporarily. Maintain external auditory canal hygiene, prevent colds, regulate temperature exposure, and strengthen overall physical health. Oral administration of herbs that clear liver and gallbladder damp-heat may be recommended. Additionally, gentle ear traction, auricular massage, pulling of the earlobe, and stimulation of the auricular concha may be beneficial.
Avoid developing the habit of routinely cleaning your ears, and refrain from frequent ear cleaning. Ideally, clean your ears no more than once per week. Overly frequent cleaning increases the risk of ear disorders. When cleaning, never apply excessive force or insert tools too deeply into the ear canal; instead, gently rotate a cotton-tipped applicator only within the outer portion of the ear canal. We hope this information proves helpful!
