Ear Problems and Treatments:
The ears play a vital role in the detection of sound. The ears are also responsible for maintaining the body’s balance and position. The ear canal is protected by a natural yellowish colored waxy substance that is secreted in the ear canal.
This substance lubricates the ear canal and protects it from damage caused by water, insects and microbes. It also helps in restricting the entry of pollutants. The thinning of the earwax or an accumulation of earwax are the main causes of ear problems.
Like every other organ, the ears are in constant need of regular care. Being a delicate organ, the ear needs to be cleaned regularly, but with much care. The use of sharp objects like toothpicks, matchsticks or keys, for cleaning the ear canal, is very common. However, it is essential to bear in mind that these objects can cause permanent damage to the eardrum thus resulting in pain and partial or complete loss of the sense of hearing. If really necessary, a soft, cotton ear bud may be used for temporary relief from a wax buildup or irritation caused by dryness within the ear. However, the use of ear buds should be minimal as it causes only a part of the wax to dislodge, leading to a further compression of a major bulk of the wax in the ear canal, resulting in clogged or plugged ears. Cleaning the ear in excess should also be avoided because it causes a thinning of the protective layer of earwax. This makes the ears prone to infection, as bacteria and fungi can easily penetrate a thin layer of earwax. It also allows water to enter the ear canal making the ear an ideal site for the growth of microbes, resulting in immense pain and discomfort.
Massaging your earlobes gently will help in getting rid of any excess earwax. Lightly pull your earlobes so as to facilitate the draining of the ears after a bath or swim so as to prevent the accumulation of water in the ear. If you have a buildup of earwax or suffer from extreme dryness in the ears, occasionally put two drops of mineral oil or baby oil in your ears while in an inclined position. After a few minutes, allow the excess oil to drain out by gently pulling on your earlobes. This will help in the softening and removal of excess earwax, and will also offer a protective shield in the case of insufficient earwax.
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