Do I need to clean my ears for ear, nose, and throat examinations during a physical examination

Generally, ear, nose, and throat examinations during physical examinations do not require ear cleaning. The routine physical examination of otolaryngology mainly checks the external auditory canal, eardrum, nasal cavity, and throat structure. Unless there is earwax blockage affecting the examination, the doctor will decide whether to clean it according to the actual situation.

Routine ear examination observes the condition of the external auditory canal and eardrum through a frontal or otoscope. No special treatment is required when there is less earwax and the field of view is not obstructed. If earwax adheres to the wall of the external auditory canal in a patchy manner but is not completely blocked, the doctor may use a blunt probe to gently open and examine. For those with oily earwax or a history of otitis media, a warm towel can be applied to the earlobe in advance before the physical examination to help soften the earwax. When earwax forms a hard plug that completely covers the eardrum, doctors will recommend professional cleaning. This situation is more common in cases where the ear canal has not been cleaned for a long time, improper use of cotton swabs to push earwax into deep areas, or narrowing of the external ear canal. The cleaning methods include flushing with physiological saline, suction with a suction device, or removal of earwax hooks. The operation should be carried out by professionals under frontal mirror illumination to avoid damaging the eardrum. If abnormalities such as otitis externa or fungal infection are found after a physical examination, it is necessary to avoid digging out the ear on your own and seek timely follow-up. It is recommended to only wipe the area around the auricle with a towel for daily cleaning of the ear canal, and avoid using tools such as cotton swabs to penetrate deep into the ear canal. After swimming or bathing, keep the ear canal dry. For oily earwax, a doctor can evaluate whether professional cleaning is needed every six months to a year.