ENT warns cotton buds can damage ears

Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural defense that traps dust, dirt, bacteria, and insects before reaching the eardrum.

Using cotton buds can push wax deeper into the ear canal, causing blockage, ear pain, reduced hearing, ringing, dizziness, or eardrum damage.

Earwax keeps the ear canal moisturized and prevents dryness, itching, and irritation.

Removal of earwax should only be done when medically recommended, such as for hearing loss, fullness, pain, or persistent ringing.