Do you also use earbuds to clean ears? Leave this dangerous habit today itself

News India Live, Digital Desk: As soon as we feel itching or heaviness in the ear, our hand first goes towards the earbud or cotton swab. We think that all the dirt accumulated in the ear will come out only through this. But do you know that the thing that you consider best for ear cleaning is actually the biggest enemy for your ears?

Earwax is not a mess, it is your ear’s protector!

First of all, it is important to understand that what we think of as ‘earwax’ or ‘dirt’ and are anxious to remove, actually acts as a protective shield for our ears. In medical language it is called ‘cerumen’ or ear wax. This wax protects our ears from dust, soil and bacteria. Additionally, it moisturizes the delicate skin of the ear and prevents it from drying out. Our body keeps producing and purifying it on its own as per the need.

Then why is it dangerous to use earbuds?

When we insert earbuds or any sharp object into our ears, instead of expelling the earwax, we push it deeper into the eardrum. This accumulated wax gradually dries and hardens and can cause blockage in the ear. Due to this, you may have problem of hearing loss, pain in the ear or whistling sound in the ear (tinnitus). Not only this, even if this match accidentally hits the curtain, your eardrum may burst, due to which you may lose your hearing forever.

Safe and home methods to clean ears

If you feel that earwax has accumulated too much, instead of using earbuds indiscriminately, adopt these safe methods to clean it:

• Mustard or olive oil: This is the oldest and effective method. Heat 2-3 drops of any oil slightly and put it in the ear. Keep the oil lukewarm, not hot. Put oil in the ears and lie on the same side for 5-10 minutes, so that the oil can penetrate inside. This will soften the hardened grime, allowing it to slowly come out on its own. You can do this once or twice a week.
• garlic oil: If you are feeling mild infection or pain in the ear, then garlic oil can be very beneficial. Add 2-3 cloves of garlic in mustard oil and heat it. When the oil remains cool and lukewarm, filter it and put 2 drops in the ear. The anti-bacterial properties present in garlic help in preventing infection.

When should one go to the doctor?

If even home remedies do not provide relief or you have severe pain in the ear, fluid is flowing from the ear, you feel dizzy or your hearing has suddenly become very low, then immediately consult a good ENT doctor. The doctor will examine your ear and clean it easily with the help of safe instruments.

Remember, ear is a very delicate part of our body. Even a small carelessness in cleaning it can prove costly.