Why does the first ear cleaning hurt so much?

Generally, ear cleaning may be very painful for first-time users and could be related to improper operation, external auditory canal boils, acute diffuse otitis externa, cerumen impaction, or damage to internal ear structures. Specific causes are as follows:

1. Improper technique

Pain during ear cleaning may result from inexperienced handling or distractions caused by external factors, leading to the ear-cleaning tool touching the sensitive ear canal. It is recommended that patients undergo ear cleaning at a正规 medical facility.

2. External auditory canal boil (furuncle)

Ear picking, water exposure, or adverse physical and chemical stimuli can lead to purulent bacterial infection of hair follicles and skin appendages in the external ear canal, resulting in cellulitis or abscess formation. Touching the boil during ear cleaning can cause severe pain. Treatment may include medications such as 10% ichthammol glycerin or 30%–50% silver nitrate ointment, as directed by a physician.

3. Acute diffuse otitis externa

Under the above-mentioned conditions, widespread acute inflammation of the external ear canal skin may develop, causing redness, swelling, and increased nerve sensitivity. Stimulation of the inflamed area during ear cleaning can therefore cause significant pain. Treatment may include prescription ear drops such as levofloxacin hydrochloride otic solution or ciprofloxacin hydrochloride otic solution.

4. Cerumen impaction

Excessive cerumen secretion or poor natural expulsion may lead to cerumen impaction within the ear canal. Contact with hardened cerumen during ear cleaning can irritate the ear canal wall and cause intense pain. Cerumen can be softened using 5% sodium bicarbonate solution as prescribed, followed by irrigation or removal with appropriate instruments.

5. Injury to internal ear structures

Damage to internal ear structures—such as tympanic membrane perforation or ear bone fractures—can also cause pain during ear cleaning. Treatment may include prescribed ear drops such as levofloxacin hydrochloride otic solution or ciprofloxacin hydrochloride otic solution.

If a patient experiences pain during ear cleaning, they should immediately stop the procedure and seek prompt medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.