Ear Hygiene: Know Its Importance And How To Do It
Have you ever had some uncomfortable moments because of covered ears? Although it doesn’t seem like it, these painful events are related to the care of the auditory organ in the majority of the population. For this reason, to help you avoid these situations, we’ll present some tips for maintaining good ear hygiene.
Why is ear hygiene important?
The ear is the inner sensory channel, while the ear pinna is the outer part, covered by hair follicles and glands. They produce a waxy oil called cerumen, which reaches the opening of the ear. The amount of wax produced varies according to each person’s body.
Cerumen traps dust particles from the air. In this way, it prevents them from reaching the eardrum, protecting it. That is, the wax has a preventive function in the ear.
However, when it accumulates at the entrance to the ear, it usually blocks the external ear canal. This is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. That’s why ear hygiene is vitally important. You should not let excess earwax build up there.
Keeping your ears clean allows this organ to effectively perform its auditory and balance function. With proper precautions, you will avoid infections and serious problems such as permanent deafness.
How to Clean Your Ears Properly
The evolution of auditory pathologies is becoming more noticeable every day. However, you can avoid them by cleaning your ear correctly only when necessary.
First, you should use a seawater diffuser to dilute the accumulated wax and facilitate removal.
You can also use glycerin. This action will have greater effect if performed an hour before the bath, since the bath is the best time for ear hygiene.
After a few minutes, bend your head over a towel to drain off the water and diluted wax. After that, dry the outer part of the ear with the towel. This way, you will avoid the appearance of fungus.
The periodicity of this process must be on alternate days. Remember that the ear should not be completely free of wax.
What to avoid when cleaning your ears?
Hearing problems are often diagnosed by improperly cleaning the ears. For example, some recommend hydrogen peroxide for the hygiene of the auditory organ.
However, it is not the best option. In fact, doctors don’t indicate it, especially in patients with a perforated eardrum. So try not to use it when cleaning your ears.
Also, avoid using cotton swabs to remove wax from your ears, as instead of removing it, it pushes the wax plug inward. If the wax gets into the ear, it can cause serious damage to the eardrum.
Also, do not introduce any type of objects such as chopsticks, pins or hooks to relieve the ear or clean it. By doing this, you run the risk of breaking the structures in your ear.
How to tell when ears are dirty
You may wonder if you need to clean your ears if you have any of the hallmark symptoms. For example, hearing loss, ear irritation and itching.
Sometimes the wax plug can move and cause some pain. If even after cleaning at home you feel discomfort, then you should go to the doctor.
Necessary care for a healthy ear
Good ear health is not just about cleanliness, but care is also needed to avoid damage and injury. This is especially relevant in children. Especially if they swim, always try to make them swim with ear canal protection plugs.
Also, avoid exposing your ears to loud noises, and if you experience discomfort or pain, avoid self-exploration. Also, don’t medicate yourself or insert things into your ear.
Likewise, try to keep your television and sound equipment at a moderate volume. Also, avoid using headphones often and keep your ears away from moisture. After showering, be sure to dry them well.
In conclusion, ear hygiene must be accompanied by good habits. Try to keep them clean and dry to avoid complications that can significantly affect your daily life.
