Health experts worldwide are issuing a strong warning against the common practice of using cotton swabs or earbuds to clean the ears, emphasizing that the habit poses more harm than benefit. They stress that a vast number of individuals remain unaware that this routine practice can lead to serious medical complications.
Experts explain that when cotton swabs are inserted into the ear canal, they fail to extract the earwax (cerumen) but instead push it deeper inside. This action risks causing intense ear pain, infections, and potentially even a ruptured eardrum.
Citing medical data, health professionals highlight that research indicates over 70 percent of ear ailments are attributable to the use of earbuds or cotton swabs for cleaning.
Experts reiterate that earwax is a naturally occurring protective mechanism designed to safeguard the ears. Its presence helps trap dust, dirt, and bacteria, which are naturally expelled from the ear canal on their own. Should an individual experience symptoms like difficulty hearing or persistent ear pain due to perceived excess earwax, the safest course of action is to consult a qualified physician who can use specialized tools to remove the wax safely.
