4 FAQs About Ear Cleaning

Are you worried about your dirty ears? Dirty ears are not usually a sign that something is seriously wrong, but the problem can cause everything from hearing difficulties to unsightly issues. If you do have dirty ears, you might want to contact your audiologist about an ear cleaning. But before you do here are some of the most FAQs.

Why do ears need cleaning?

You might have heard that ears are self-cleaning and for the most part this is absolutely true. Basically, your ears will work to push substances out of your ear and keep the ear canal as clear as possible. This includes excess earwax, dirt, grime and anything else that might have slipped down the hole.

That said, there are various issues that can cause your ears to be more dirty than usual. In cases like this, the self-cleaning mechanism may not be enough to fully clear the problem. Examples include people who wear hearing aids. Individuals who wear hearing aids are going to have a block across their ear quite frequently. As such earwax gets trapped and the same can be true for those who wear ear protectors, plugs or earphones. Some people will also experience difficulty with a buildup due to hardened earwax. If that’s the case, then more steps will need to be taken to keep the ear clean.

Can you clean your ears yourself?

It is possible to clean your own ears out through a variety of methods. Some people use cotton swabs to get rid of excess earwax particularly when it’s present around the outer ear. This is easy to do and a quick solution to something that may be bothering you. Alternatively, running warm water from a tap down your ear and then letting it rinse out may also solve the issue. However, cleaning your ear through these methods can be dangerous. It’s important to be aware that the ears are both sensitive and delicate. Cotton swabs can be large enough to create an impact and indeed damage the inner ear.

What’s the best choice for ear cleaning?

The best choice for ear cleaning would be to contact an audiologist. With an audiologist, you will be able to assess the issue and determine whether your ears need a proper clean out. The benefit of using an audiologist is that they have the equipment to complete a proper clean. It’s quick, pain-free and relatively simple so there is absolutely no need to fear this type of treatment at all.

Are dirty ears a cause for concern?

Generally speaking, dirty ears should not be a cause for concern. However, they may bother you if the problem becomes unsightly or begins to impact your hearing. People who are suffering from tinnitus commonly find that the root cause is a buildup of earwax. This can cause the ringing that is commonly associated with this condition. By removing the excess earwax, your hearing can improve dramatically.

We hope this helps you understand ear cleaning, why it’s important and the right choice to make sure that this is completed effectively.