WHY FREQUENT EAR CLEANING SHOULD BE AVOIDED

According to Dr. Tran Trong Uyen Minh, MD, PhD: “Regular ear picking, especially at unhygienic facilities, is truly unnecessary, because ear-cleaning tools that are not properly sterilized will become a source of bacterial and fungal infection, causing inflammation of the ear canal. When the skin lining the ear canal is damaged, bacteria can enter, leading to infection and suppuration. In addition, earwax is a naturally produced substance to protect the ear canal, not a sign of poor hygiene. This substance is formed from sebum, sweat glands, and skin cells. The ear canal has a self-cleaning mechanism, so there is no need for frequent earwax removal. Under normal conditions, earwax will migrate and fall out on its own due to jaw movements during talking, chewing, or bathing. However, many people misunderstand that regular ear cleaning is necessary for personal hygiene. In reality, many people attempt to remove it using cotton swabs and various other tools. This can cause ear damage, discomfort, and push earwax deeper and compact it, causing complete obstruction of the ear canal, and even temporary hearing loss. In some risky cases, earwax removal causes severe damage that can affect the vestibular system, causing dizziness and loss of balance.

Therefore, Dr. Uyen Minh, MD, PhD, recommends against picking ears frequently, especially with hard objects or at unsanitary facilities. If your ears feel blocked, it is best to visit a specialist for a safe examination and proper care.
Sante Hospital gathering a team of experienced and highly skilled Ear, Nose, and Throat specialists who have successfully examined and treated thousands of patients. In particular, the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department at Sante Hospital is led by PhD. MD Tran Trong Uyen Minh, holding advanced certifications in rhinology and sinus surgery from the United States. With profound clinical expertise and advanced therapeutic methods, we deliver effective care, protection, and management solutions for ENT pathologies.