ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Medical experts have raised fresh concerns over a common habit many people consider harmless: cleaning earwax with earbuds or cotton.
Doctors warn that improper cleaning can damage the delicate eardrum adding this practice is leading to a surge in infections and hearing issues.
The warning comes amid more patients reporting avoidable ear complications.
According to medical experts, many people routinely insert cotton or earbuds into their ears believing it keeps them clean but doctors warn this can be extremely dangerous.
They said nearly 70% of earache or infection cases are linked to this very habit.
How earbuds cause damage
Explaining the issue, doctors said inserting earbuds or cotton swabs does not remove wax. Instead, it often pushes the wax further into the canal which can worsen blockages and lead to pain and infection.
Doctors warn that a damaged eardrum can directly affect hearing, making the consequences much more serious than most people think.
Medical professionals urged the people not to clean their ears at home using cotton or earbuds, rather, they must consult a doctor if earwax buildup becomes concerning.
