As an audiologist, I often get asked about ear cameras and tools that can be purchased online. It's no secret that the internet has made it easy to find all kinds of products, including those related to ear cleaning. However, when it comes to something as sensitive as our ears, it's important to consider the safety of any tool before using it. Those spiral ear tools are popular on TikTok, but can come with some serious injuries to the ear canal. So which tools are best to use? In this article, I'll be reviewing the top ear camera tools and what to know about safety.
Why use an ear camera?
You may wonder why you need an ear camera in the first place. Well, an ear camera can help you see inside your ear canal and detect any abnormalities. Sometimes patients come into the clinic for an ear cleaning only to be told that their ears are already clear of wax or have only minimal ear wax. Inspecting your ears gives you a sense of whether it's worth it to book an appointment. While ear cleaning tools can help, they won't clear wax that is dry and fully occluding the ear canal. This type of ear wax is usually dark brown or black and may have adhered to the skin in the ear canal. In that case, it's best to see a professional. Earwax that is soft and yellow to orange in color is safer to work with, when using the proper precautions.
These tools can also help you clean your ears if you're experiencing excess earwax build-up. However, it's important to note that the use of an ear camera should always be done with caution. Using one of these tools without caution and care, can cause serious damage to your ear canal and even lead to hearing loss.
What to consider when it comes to safety
When considering safety, three critical factors come to the forefront: employing the correct technique, using appropriate tools, and knowing when to consult a professional. Proper technique is vital to avoid inadvertent damage to sensitive ear structures. This involves gentle insertion of the camera and avoiding forceful movements. The right tools are equally important; ensure your ear camera has adequate lighting, a safe, smooth end, and a magnification feature. It should also be clean and sanitized before use. Finally, it's essential to recognize when professional help is required. If you notice significant ear pain, drainage, or abnormalities such as lumps or growths, immediately seek a professional’s opinion. Remember, ear cameras can be a useful tool for preliminary checks, but they no way replace the expertise of a trained medical professional.
Here are some tips to prevent damage or discomfort to the ear:
- Be gentle and go slow. Take your time when examining the ear.
- If examining another person's ear, such as a child, use proper bracing technique. Rest your pinky and other fingers firmly on the head while using the tool, this way if the person flinches, you'll protect the tool from hitting the ear canal or going too deep.
- If anything hurts, stop. If there is any discomfort when using the tool, stop immediately.
Conclusion
Ear camera tools can be incredibly useful for detecting ear abnormalities and cleaning excess earwax. However, it's important to prioritize safety when using any kind of tool related to your hearing health. Always consult your audiologist before using any new device, and only use ear cameras that have a positive safety rating. The four ear camera tools reviewed in this blog post are all safe and effective, making them great options for hearing aid consumers looking to keep their ears clean and healthy.
