Most people know the feeling of having a clogged ear. It can be frustrating because you can’t hear anything out of that ear. You may not know that some risks are associated with ignoring clogged ears. Which is why it is advised that you visit an ENT specialist. If you live in Singapore, you should check the top ent specialist. Here, we will discuss the risks of ignoring clogged ears and what you can do to prevent them from happening.
Ear Infection
One risk is that you could develop an ear infection. When your ear is clogged, it provides a perfect environment for bacteria to grow. This can lead to an infection of the outer ear (otitis externa) or middle ear (otitis media). Ear infections can be very painful, and if left untreated, they can cause serious problems.
If you think you might have an ear infection, it is important to see a doctor right away. They can prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. But depending on its severity, it might require surgery to remove the infected tissue. If you are experiencing mild pain, redness, and itchiness around your ear, it is best to see a doctor to get it checked.
Facial Nerve Damage
Another risk is facial nerve damage. The facial nerve controls the muscles in your face. It runs from your brain to your face and passes through a small opening in your skull called the Fallopian canal. If this canal becomes blocked, it can put pressure on the facial nerve, leading to paralysis of the muscles on one side of your face. This condition is called Bell’s palsy and can be very serious. If you think you might have facial nerve damage, it is essential to see a doctor right away so they can treat the condition.
Hearing Loss
Lastly, the most serious risk of ignoring clogged ears is hearing loss. When your ear is clogged, it prevents sound waves from reaching your eardrum. This can cause permanent damage to your eardrum and lead to hearing loss. If you are at risk for hearing loss, it is important to see a doctor immediately so they can help prevent the damage from worsening.
Many people think that this cannot possibly happen to them, but it can and does happen to people of all ages. It is best to be very attentive in taking care of your ears. This way, you can avoid any future risks.
Ignoring clogged ears can lead to several health risks, including ear infections and hearing loss. If you are experiencing any symptoms of clogged ears, it is essential to seek medical attention right away. By understanding the risks associated with clogged ears, you can proactively prevent them from becoming a bigger problem. Have you ever experienced clogged ears? What did you do to clear them up? Let us know in the comments. We hope that you have found this blog post helpful.