Concerns About My Hearing: Is It Time to Seek Medical Attention?
At 28 years old, I made the error of using a cotton swab to clean my ear, which resulted in a sudden onset of pain. Utilizing an endoscope, I inspected my ear and noticed what seems to be some bleeding and irritation. It’s possible that I might have accidentally punctured the ear canal or drum slightly. This incident occurred on the 7th, and after taking another look today, 10 days later, it appears to be healing, although there is a piece of skin protruding. Should I have visited a healthcare professional earlier, or can this issue resolve itself? Currently, there’s minimal discomfort aside from a bit of popping during swallowing and a mild ache in the ear that isn’t too bothersome. My hearing seems to be normal as well. Should I consider visiting a doctor now, or is it likely that I’ll be okay? Am I being overly cautious, or have I potentially delayed necessary medical attention?
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 6:01:54 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your hearing and ear health after such an incident. Based on what you've described, including the initial pain, bleeding, and current symptoms, it’s wise to take a cautious approach.
Main Points:
- Injury to the ear canal can lead to complications, and while some issues can heal on their own, it's important to monitor for changes.
- Current symptoms like popping sounds and mild aches may indicate ongoing irritation or a potential issue.
Explanation: Using a cotton swab can disturb the delicate structures of the ear, and any bleeding or pain afterwards can be a sign of injury, including potential damage to the ear drum or canal. Even if you're experiencing minimal discomfort and normal hearing, the presence of irritation and skin protruding suggests that your ear is still healing and may need professional evaluation.
Next Steps:
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Observe Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms over the next few days. If the irritation increases, or if you start experiencing more discomfort, hearing loss, or any signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge), it’s essential to seek medical help promptly.
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Avoid Further Irritation: Do not insert anything into your ear canal, including cotton swabs, as this can exacerbate any damage.
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Maintain Ear Hygiene: Gently clean the outer ear with a damp cloth, but avoid touching the inner part of the ear until it has fully healed.
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Consider a Doctor Visit: Since you've noticed changes and complications from the initial injury, it would be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional. They can examine your ear properly and determine if any treatment is needed to promote healing and prevent complications.
Taking action now can prevent potential long-term effects on your hearing. It's better to be cautious, especially with any symptoms concerning the ears. Let me know if you have more questions or need further clarification!
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