Oct 14, 2024
Risks of using garlic-infused olive oil for ear infections
Siddhartha JanaThe popular home remedy of adding garlic-infused olive oil to the ear lacks scientific evidence to support its safety or effectiveness.
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ENT specialists caution against using this remedy, as it poses potential risks, especially if the eardrum is perforated.
Source: Canva
In cases of a perforated eardrum, the presence of any foreign material, including garlic, could increase the risk of fungal or bacterial infections.
Source: Canva
Even with an intact eardrum, applying garlic oil to the ear could lead to infections in the external ear canal.
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Ear infections are generally classified into three types: external ear infections (like boils or otitis externa), middle ear infections (causing pain, discharge, and hearing loss), and rare inner ear infections (which can result in dizziness and vertigo).
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External ear infections can be treated with antibiotics, while middle ear infections may require medical attention and sometimes discharge management.
Source: Canva
Inner ear infections, though rare, are serious and demand urgent medical intervention due to symptoms like vertigo and hearing loss.
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People with underlying conditions like diabetes are at higher risk for severe ear infections, making early consultation with an ENT specialist crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Source: Canva
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