Ear washing is generally safe but there are conditions where it's contraindicated as it may cause serious complications.
Absolute Contraindications:
- Known eardrum perforation: Water enters the middle ear — causes serious infection.
- Previous ear surgery: Especially eardrum or ossicle surgeries.
- Ventilation tube (Grommet): Tubes placed in the eardrum — water prohibited.
Relative Contraindications (need caution):
- Ear discharge: May indicate infection or perforation — examine first.
- Severe ear pain: May be an infection — washing makes it worse.
- History of perforated eardrum: Even if healed — proceed cautiously.
- Foreign body: Some objects (like batteries) need instrument removal — not water.
Alternatives to Washing:
- Microsuction: Best alternative — works even with perforated eardrum.
- Manual removal: With fine instruments under otoscope.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we examine the ear first with otoscope before any procedure — for your safety.