What are the precautions for cleaning ears?
Jun 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Precautions for ear cleaning include using proper tools, avoiding excessive ear picking, applying gentle force, and not inserting objects too deeply. In addition, one should avoid cleaning wet ears and ensure that tools are properly disinfected. If symptoms such as ear pain or earwax blockage occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Using sharp objects such as wooden sticks or toothpicks to clean the ears may damage the skin of the ear canal or the eardrum.
Under normal circumstances, precautions for ear cleaning include using proper tools, avoiding excessive ear cleaning, applying gentle force, and not inserting objects too deeply. Specific details are as follows:
1. Use appropriate tools: Using sharp objects such as wooden sticks or toothpicks to clean the ears may damage the skin of the ear canal or the eardrum, leading to pain or infection. It is recommended to use specialized ear spoons or cotton swabs for ear cleaning.
2. Avoid over-cleaning: Excessive ear cleaning may irritate the skin of the ear canal, causing earwax to accumulate more severely, and may even damage the ear canal skin or eardrum. It is advised to clean the ears 1–2 times per week, and no more than 3 times.
3. Use gentle force: When cleaning ears, apply light pressure to avoid injuring the ear canal skin or eardrum. Gently insert the ear spoon or cotton swab and slowly rotate it, allowing earwax to naturally slide out along the ear canal.
4. Do not insert too deeply: Avoid inserting ear spoons or cotton swabs too far into the ear to prevent injury to the ear canal skin or eardrum. Generally, cleaning only up to the earlobe area is sufficient.
In addition, avoid cleaning wet ears and always disinfect your tools. If symptoms such as ear pain or earwax blockage occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
