A List of Don’ts
While it is natural to want to stay clean, there are several things people should not do with regards to this sensitive organ. Cotton swabs are extensively marketed for cleaning ears. In many cases, however, your body keeps itself clean. The process of inserting a cotton swab into the canal can actually do more harm than good. This process may push cerumen back down into the canal instead of allowing it to work itself out naturally. Once this pattern begins, the body may even respond by producing more wax. Over time, the cerumen can become severely compacted, which can partially or completely obstruct the canal.
Additionally, people should never attempt to use any sharp instruments for ear wax removal. Items such as paper clips, hairpins, and toothpicks can result in serious injury, perhaps even causing a punctured drum.
A number of over-the-counter remedies are also available … Read the rest
