An audiologist, Akanchawa Emmanuel, has warned Nigerians against using cotton buds and other objects to clean their ears, saying the practice can lead to infections, ear injuries and permanent hearing loss.
Emmanuel gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Benin, advising the public to avoid inserting objects into the ear canal.
She explained that earwax, also known as cerumen, is a naturally produced substance that protects the ear by trapping dust, lubricating the ear canal and helping prevent infections.
According to her, the ear is self-cleaning and does not require internal cleaning. She added that the type of earwax a person has is genetically determined, with wet cerumen being common among Africans and Europeans.
She said inserting cotton buds or similar objects into the ear often pushes wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to blockage, reduced hearing, pain, dizziness and, in severe cases, perforation of the eardrum.
The audiologist also warned that improper ear-cleaning practices could irritate the ear canal, weaken its natural protective barrier and increase the risk of infections and other complications.
She stressed that ear discharge should not be confused with earwax, noting that fluid draining from the ear could be a sign of infection or a perforated eardrum requiring immediate medical attention.
Emmanuel advised against using hydrogen peroxide, water or other home remedies to clean the ears, saying earwax removal should only be carried out by trained audiologists when medically necessary.
For routine ear hygiene, she recommended cleaning only the outer ear with a clean, damp cloth. She added that mild itching could be relieved by gently pressing the tragus—the small flap of cartilage at the front of the ear.
She urged anyone experiencing persistent ear pain, hearing loss, itching or a blocked sensation to seek prompt medical attention at an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) clinic rather than resorting to self-treatment.
Some residents, however, admitted they routinely clean their ears with cotton buds despite the risks.
Mrs Helen Edegbe said she used cotton buds daily after bathing to remove earwax and maintain personal hygiene.
Similarly, a student, Mr Esosa Eloghosa, said he regularly used cotton buds and occasionally water or hydrogen peroxide to relieve ear discomfort and a blocked sensation, particularly after bathing or swimming.
He said the methods often provided temporary relief and remained common among many young people despite increasing awareness of the potential health risks.
According to him, many people rely on self-treatment and only seek specialist care when symptoms become severe or begin to interfere with their daily activities.
Source: NAN
