HIỂM HỌA KHÔN LƯỜNG: BIẾN TAI CON THÀNH “PHÒNG THÍ NGHIỆM” CỦA NHỮNG BÀI THUỐC TRUYỀN MIỆNG

HIDDEN DANGERS: DON’T TURN YOUR EARS INTO A “LABORATORY” FOR FOLK REMEDIES

In daily life, many people still pass down home remedies such as blowing powdered medicine into the ear (unknown herbal powder, plant ash, or even crushed antibiotics) to treat ear conditions. However, according to ENT specialists, this practice carries serious risks and is strongly discouraged in modern medicine.

Serious Risks of Blowing Powdered Medicine into the Ear

Causes blockage – the “bottle cork” effect

When powdered medicine mixes with pus or discharge inside the ear, it can form a thick, hardened mass that blocks the ear canal and any perforation in the eardrum. This prevents drainage, increases pressure in the middle ear, and may spread to the mastoid bone, leading to acute mastoiditis, a dangerous complication.

Risk of hearing loss and inner ear damage

Homemade or self-prepared powders may contain harmful impurities. If the eardrum is perforated, these substances can enter the inner ear and damage the hearing and balance cells, potentially causing irreversible hearing loss accompanied by severe dizziness.

Worsens infection

Powdered medicine that is not sterile may introduce additional bacteria or fungi into the ear, making the infection more severe and much harder to treat. In reality, severe infections — even cases related to tetanus — have been reported in association with this practice.

Leads to chronic ear damage

Powder residue left inside the ear may trigger prolonged inflammation and granuloma formation. Over time, these lesions can erode surrounding bone and result in serious complications.

Interferes with diagnosis and treatment

A thick layer of powder can cover the damaged area inside the ear, making examination difficult. Cleaning the ear becomes more complicated, painful, and may cause further injury to the mucosal lining, affecting treatment outcomes.

Advice from ENT Specialists

To protect hearing and prevent dangerous complications, people should keep in mind:

• Do not sprinkle, pour, or blow any type of powder into the ear
• Only use liquid ear drops prescribed by a doctor
• If symptoms such as ear pain, tinnitus, ear discharge, or hearing loss occur, seek prompt medical attention at a specialized healthcare facility
• If powdered medicine has already been used, visit a reputable ENT clinic or hospital immediately for professional cleaning with specialized instruments

The key principle in treating ear infections:

Keep the ear clean, well-ventilated, and free of foreign objects to minimize complications and protect long-term hearing health.

Safe Treatment at the ENT Department – TNH Pho Yen Hospital

At the ENT Department of TNH Pho Yen Hospital, patients are examined and treated by experienced specialists with the support of modern medical equipment. The department provides a full range of services, from clinical examination and endoscopy to medical treatment and management of complex ear conditions, ensuring safe and professional care while minimizing complications.

Contact Information

TNH Hospital Group Joint Stock Company

📞 Hotline: 1900 8035

🌐 Website: https://tnh.com.vn

Hospital System:

• TNH Pho Yen Hospital – Tran Nguyen Han Street, Chua Residential Area, Van Xuan Ward, Thai Nguyen
• Thai Nguyen International Hospital – 328 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Phan Dinh Phung Ward, Thai Nguyen
• TNH Viet Yen Hospital – Nguyen The Nho Street, Viet Yen Ward, Bac Ninh
• TNH Lang Son Hospital – Block 10, Nhi Thanh Street, Tam Thanh Ward, Lang Son