By Hellen Otunga, student of the Master in Clinical Audiology and Hearing Therapy

Abstract

Ear wax lubricates, cleans and moisturizes the canal by trapping the dirt and repelling any water that could enter the canal. A common misconception is that self-cleaning is a hygienic practice. However, the continuous use of ear buds causes injuries to the ear exposing it to bacterial infections like otitis externa. This systematic review assesses the existing knowledge on the use and impact of ear buds. It further identifies alternative methods of cleaning the ears that are safer, effective and affordable. Lastly, the review aims to find knowledge gaps existing in Kenya for further research. Using the PRISMA method, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to help in achieving the objectives of the study. About 105 articles were considered and 70 screened. Out of these, 23 articles were included in this literature review. 

The results agree that there is a general lack of awareness on the risks of cotton buds use for self-cleaning all over the world and in Kenya. Ear buds use for self-cleaning has been reported to cause wax compaction, otitis externa, ear blockage and temporary hearing loss. Alternative methods found effective include irrigation, the use of olive oil or ear drops with betamethasone, use of sodium bicarbonate or solution of docusate sodium-based. The study concludes that there is need to raise awareness and recommends the review of policies on marketing strategies for ear bud use, the training of healthcare professionals and rolling out of educational material or campaigns to teach alternative ways of ear cleaning.

Keywords: cotton buds, hazards, awareness, ear infection, ear wax, self-ear cleaning

Download the full Research Work: Otunga, H. (2024). A Systematic literature review of the impact of using ear buds for cleaning ears in children and adults. SAERA