Ear sticks are used quite frequently for ear cleaning and hygiene in daily life. Experts, who state that one should be careful when using ear sticks, explain that ear sticks and similar substances inserted into the ear are harmful to the ear. Trakya University Faculty of Medicine Ear, Nose and Throat Department Lecturer Prof. Dr. Cem Uzun gave information about the harms of using ear sticks.
EAR ROD CAUSES EAR INFECTIONS
Explaining that the ear secretes a liquid called cerumen to protect itself, Uzun said that this liquid protects the ear against infections. Emphasizing that this fluid secreted between the eardrum and the auricle is mistaken for dirt, Uzun said, “This is a fluid that protects our ears from infections. We see that this fluid is mistaken for dirt and is often tried to be cleaned with cotton swabs. This is not a situation we recommend, it is an inconvenient practice. Because it removes that protective layer. “It both irritates it and creates a suitable ground for infections because it takes that layer.”
“EAR IS A SELF CLEANING ORGAN”
Uzun pointed out that the sticks used to clean the ear push the liquid or dirt in the ear to the bottom. Noting that such situations cause ear congestion and similar discomforts, Uzun said: “We do not recommend ear sticks. After taking a shower or washing the ear, it can be cleaned with a towel without going inside from the outside. At the same time, the ear is already a self-cleaning organ. there is activity and it removes their dirt. When you put something in, you compress them more. This time, ear blockages occur. When you try to clean them yourself, you can damage the eardrum as well. In such cases, we recommend people to go to an otolaryngologist. Then they pull with an aspirator or do it with ear washing method. That’s why I would like to emphasize that our ears should not be interfered with.”