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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Q-tip Addiction Be Stopped?

Hi this may seem a bit odd. I ve heard of q tip addiction which I am also guilty of but I have a strange enjoyment from the effect of direct Loud or echoed noises against my ear that create vibrations. I had even purchased a long bendable tube so that I can echo noises into my own ear. The sensation not only feels good on my ears but seems to clear my throat as well. I can see this being a rather damaging thing. Have you ever came across this before.
Tue, 30 Apr 2019
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

It is common that patients have the habit of using Q-Tips and have it difficult to refrain from it.
In your case though, because you say that using Q-Tips helps to clear your throat, I would recommend you to have a visit with your doctor to make sure your tympanic membrane is intact. Normally if the tympanic membrane is intact the application of things in the ear should not affect the throat.

If the tympanic membrane is intact, maybe the doctor will give you some solution with a steroid for a short time if he sees that your ear canal is dry, indicating possible dermatitis which might cause you to have itchiness locally there.

I hope this answers your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj
General and Family Physician
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How Can Q-tip Addiction Be Stopped?

Hello, It is common that patients have the habit of using Q-Tips and have it difficult to refrain from it. In your case though, because you say that using Q-Tips helps to clear your throat, I would recommend you to have a visit with your doctor to make sure your tympanic membrane is intact. Normally if the tympanic membrane is intact the application of things in the ear should not affect the throat. If the tympanic membrane is intact, maybe the doctor will give you some solution with a steroid for a short time if he sees that your ear canal is dry, indicating possible dermatitis which might cause you to have itchiness locally there. I hope this answers your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Antoneta Zotaj General and Family Physician