
When should I get my ears professionally cleaned?
Even though the ear is a self-cleansing organ, it's among the most sensitive body parts and requires intricate care. It has earwax that contains natural antifungal and antiseptic properties that protect it from debris, dirt, and harmful bacteria that cause infection. However, what happens when the earwax is insufficient to clean the ear?
Sometimes, earwax builds up and becomes too much for the canal, causing a barrier or blockage. At this point, audiologists recommend a professional cleaning, which is effective and far safer than doing so yourself. Here's how to know when you get your ears professionally cleaned.
When You Have Excessive Cerumen
Cerumen, commonly known as earwax, can build up and harden, causing ear blockage. Some symptoms that show you have ear blockage include:
• Itchiness in the ear
• Earache
• Decreased hearing
• Ringing in the ears
• Dizziness
Earwax removal can be done through irrigation or a curette by a hearing specialist. The irrigation method uses carbamide peroxide to melt the wax. Meanwhile, a curette scoops the wax from the ear canal. After cleaning, the doctor will prescribe other measures to maintain ear cleanliness. Generally, it's advisable to clean the ears professionally every six months.
When Your Experience Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a sensation of ringing, hissing, whistling, buzzing, and other sounds in the ear. The sounds are continuous, noisy, uncomfortable, and sometimes painful. If not treated, persistence may result in decreased hearing and severe infections such as Meniere's disease. Visit an audiologist to prevent further complications if one experiences such symptoms. Prevention is better than treatment.
When You Have Dark Ear Wax
Itching, discharge, or dark wax from the ear signifies that all is not well in the inner ear. This may result from wax build-up or ear infection, distorting general health balance. A quick visit to the audiologist is advisable to clean the ear effectively.
The Key Takeaway
Undoubtedly, cerumen plays a significant role in the human ear. However, too much of it can impair your hearing. Professional ear cleaning is not a luxury; it's a required self-care measure every person should adopt. The good news is that it is painless, safe, and convenient. All you have to do is walk into your preferred audiologist and have your ears checked for possible cleaning services.
Some signs of an ear that needs professional cleaning include continuous cases of tinnitus and excess dark ear wax. Usually, an audiologist will check your ears and then recommend professional cleaning.
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