How Using Cotton Swab Incorrectly Left This Woman Permanently Deaf: True Story

Figure 1. A man developed a severe infection in his ear canal from a cotton swab that spread to the lining of his brain.Photo byCharlton et al. (2019).

In our hygiene habits, we often overlook the potential dangers lurking in the most mundane of household items, such as the cotton swab. This seemingly innocuous tool, often used for ear cleaning, harbors risks that are not only surprising but can be life-threatening.

A Tale of Two Patients

The journey into this hidden danger begins with the stories of two individuals, whose routine act of ear cleaning turned into a fight for their lives.

In 2017, a man was admitted to the emergency room after collapsing from multiple seizures and experiencing severe ear pain. Similarly, in 2019, a woman faced a medical emergency characterized by hearing loss and bloody discharge from her ear.

Both cases, initially perceived as minor inconveniences, escalated into critical conditions. Upon medical examination, both patients were diagnosed with necrotizing otitis externa, a severe infection of the outer ear canal extending to the eardrum and the brain (see Figure 1 above).

The man underwent surgery to remove infected tissue and received long-term antibiotic treatment, fortunately avoiding permanent damage. But the woman wasn't as lucky; she suffered permanent hearing loss due to the infection, which had almost entirely eroded the bone tissue at the base of her skull.

The common link in these cases was the regular use of cotton swabs for ear cleaning. Over time, cotton fibers lodged in their ear canals, collecting wax and debris, leading to severe infections. This revelation is alarming, considering the widespread use of cotton swabs for ear hygiene.

More Context

Ear infections are categorized into outer, middle, and inner ear infections, each with distinct causes and symptoms.

Outer ear infections, like those suffered by the patients, often result from a combination of moisture, heat, and trauma to the ear canal. Middle ear infections are common in children and can lead to permanent hearing loss if untreated. Inner ear infections, often mistaken for inflammation, can be symptoms of more severe conditions like meningitis.

Contrary to popular belief, the ear canal is self-cleaning. The use of cotton swabs contradicts the ear's natural cleaning mechanism, often causing more harm than good. In severe cases of earwax buildup, medical professionals may employ techniques like ear irrigation or use ear curettes, but these should never be attempted at home.

The stories of these patients serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of misusing everyday items like cotton swabs. It's crucial to understand the proper care for our bodies and to consult medical professionals when in doubt.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of health and hygiene, let's be mindful of the hidden dangers in our daily routines and choose safer, more informed practices.