Khaberni - Despite many believing that cotton swabs are a safe way to remove ear wax, health expert Kunal Sud warned that this habit can cause more problems for the ear rather than solving them.
Sud explained in a video on the "TikTok" platform that the ear has a natural self-cleaning system that gradually pushes the wax outward, and that inserting cotton swabs often pushes the wax inward; leading to its accumulation, weakening hearing, causing discomfort, and in some cases, leading to infection or perforation of the eardrum.
He added: "Ear wax is not simply dirt, but acts as a barrier to protect the ear from water, bacteria, and impurities. Removing it frequently or forcefully may make the ear more prone to problems." He emphasized that cleaning the outer part of the ear is sufficient, and letting the ear canal perform its natural function.
Sud also advised using ear drops to soften the wax when needed, and consulting a specialist doctor for safe removal. Harvard Medical School confirmed that ear wax removal is a common procedure in otolaryngology, and a specialist should be consulted when wax accumulates in large amounts.
For those looking for safe home solutions, a piece of cotton soaked in warm water or saline solution or hydrogen peroxide can be used, along with tilting the head to facilitate wax drainage, or using a rubber syringe with the drops, provided that the eardrum is not damaged to avoid infection.
Experts confirm that avoiding cotton swabs and preserving natural ear wax helps prevent complications and maintains hearing health and ear comfort.
