What causes a rustling sound in the ear when turning the head, and what should be done about it?

When turning the head, a rustling sound in the ear may be caused by factors such as earwax movement, hair strands entering the ear canal, external otitis, otitis media, or ear canal eczema. Symptoms can be improved through methods like cleaning the ear canal, removing foreign bodies, or medical treatment. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by ear pain or hearing loss, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Earwax movement: When earwax accumulates and is not cleaned in time, it may rub against the eardrum or ear canal wall when turning the head, producing a rustling noise. It is recommended to gently clean earwax at the entrance of the outer ear canal with a cotton swab, avoiding deep insertion into the ear canal. Seek professional medical help if necessary for safe removal.

2. Hair strands entering the ear canal: Short hairs falling into the ear canal may rub against the eardrum when turning the head, causing a rustling sound. Use clean tweezers to carefully remove the hair strand. If self-removal is not possible, seek medical help promptly to avoid damaging the eardrum.

3. External otitis: Inflammation of the external ear canal caused by bacterial or fungal infection leads to mucosal congestion and increased secretions. Movement of these secretions during head rotation produces a rustling sound, often accompanied by itching and pain in the ear canal. Under doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as ofloxacin ear drops, terbinafine hydrochloride cream, or cefalexin capsules to relieve symptoms.

4. Otitis media: Inflammation of the middle ear due to viral or bacterial infection results in fluid or pus accumulation. When turning the head, the flowing liquid creates friction and causes a rustling sound, often associated with ear pain, ear fullness, and hearing loss. Under medical supervision, medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, phenol ear drops, or Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid may be used to alleviate discomfort.

5. External ear canal eczema: Eczema in the external ear canal triggered by allergies or local irritation causes skin flaking and exudation. Movement of the flakes during head turning produces a rustling sound, along with severe itching. As directed by a physician, treatments such as calamine lotion, desonide cream, or loratadine dispersible tablets may help improve symptoms.

Maintain dryness and cleanliness of the ear canal, avoid frequent ear picking, protect ears from water during bathing, stay away from noisy and irritating environments, maintain regular作息 (sleep patterns), strengthen physical health, and reduce the occurrence of ear discomfort.