North Wales based audiologist sheds light on the dangers of hopi ear candles
Colwyn Bay Hearing Practice, a hearing clinic based in North Wales, is urging people to avoid practicing ear candling, an ancient practice that’s touted as an alternative remedy to ear wax removal.
According to Adrian Dowling, senior audiologist at Colwyn Bay Hearing Practice, using hopi ear candles is not only ineffective but is extremely dangerous too.
“Also known as ear coning or hopi candling, the practice claims to remove wax and improve general health through the use of a hollow candle that’s placed in the ear and is then lit at the other end. However, several studies show that using hopi ear candles is not only ineffective but is extremely dangerous too.”
There are several reasons to avoid using this practice,” Mr. Dowling added.
- Outer and inner ear injuries – Even when you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, hopi ear candles can still cause serious injuries, including injuries to the face and ear from melting wax; burns to the ear drum, ear canal, middle ear and face; punctured eardrum and ear wax plugging up the ear.
- Hopi ear candles are ineffective – “There’s no scientific evidence to back the apparent benefits of hopi ear candles,” said Mr. Dowling. He further explained that not only is ear candling ineffective but it can push earwax deeper down the ear canal. Any debris found in the hopi ear candle is mostly a mixture of burned fabric and wax, not impurities from your ear.
“Earwax is an important part of healthy ears. Known as cerumen, earwax helps keep dirt and bacteria from entering the ear while keeping the ear canal moist,” Mr. Dowling said.
“Microsuction is the safest and the most effective method of ear wax removal. This technique does not involve the use of liquids, so there’s minimal mess or fuss. Our audiologists will examine the ear before the treatment,” added Mr. Dowling,
About Colwyn Bay Hearing Practice
Colwyn Bay Hearing Practice is a leading hearing clinic in North Wales. Since 1961, the clinic has been serving the hard of hearing across North Wales. They provide quality hearing care services including ear wax removal in North Wales. For more information, visit www.colwynbayhearing.co.uk.