Washing your ears may seem simple but often, bad habits lead to the formation of earplugs, which are not without consequences for our hearing health.Often, appointments at the ENT (Otorhinolaryngology, A Surgical who deals with conditions of the ear, nose, and throat) Who deals are related to ear plugs formed in our ear. In question, bad habits when washing the ear canal.
What's Earwax?
The wax is a kind of natural wax which is formed in the auditory canal, at the outer ear. It is not dirty and its role is even fundamental since it prevents microbes, insects and other dust from entering the ear more deeply. We also know that it allows good sound transmission and protects the eardrum, a thin, very fragile membrane. So yes, we can remove the excess of unsightly ear wax on the visible part of the ear, but we do not remove everything!Ban Cotton Swabs
ENTs do not recommend the use of cotton swabs, including those supposedly suitable for babies. Why ? Simply because the latter is often misused on the one hand - it pushes ear wax to the bottom of the ear, resulting in the formation of a plug - and irritates the ear canal on the other hand. Removing all cerumen (Earwax) leaves the ear unprotected and lubricated. Finally, the cotton swab may leave cotton particles in the ear and there will be more cerumen to accompany them to the exit.Wash Your Ears Once a Week Maximum
For good ear health, avoid washing your ears too often. As stated above, you risk depriving the ear wax, its best protection. Once a week - or even once every ten days - is a reasonable pace and recommended by the experts. In case of spills, you can pass a wet handkerchief on the pavilion.What About Sprays?
In case of excessive production of cerumen, it is possible to use a spray. Spray the product purchased in the pharmacy in the ear canal, tilt your head, massage lightly. This process will fragment the cerumen and help it flow outward. Renew the operation three or four consecutive nights from time to time. Be careful, do not have the eardrum pierced before using a spray! Consult an ENT in case of doubts or pain.Ear Picks
True, their name is not very sexy, but it is an effective and safe tool. We find them in organic store. The ear cups, or ear curettes, remove the excess earwax, without going too far in the conduit. Due to its shape, it is impossible to push ear wax to the eardrum.However, avoid going too far in trying to remove as much wax as possible: you could hurt yourself or damage your eardrum. It is a tool adapted to the hygiene of the little ones (to use with caution, station with the abrupt gestures) and of the big ones. The stainless steel ear pick is the best choice.