The Hazards of Ear Candling

No gain, but potential pain

(HealthDayNews) -- While ear candling is touted as a cure-all for a number of medical problems like sinusitis, this alternative therapy is dangerous and has no proven benefit, says Health Canada.

An ear candle is a narrow, hollow cone that has been soaked in beeswax or paraffin and allowed to harden. During ear candling, the point of the cone is inserted in the patient's ear and then the top of the cone is lit and left to burn for a few minutes.

Practitioners claim that the flame creates warmth and suction, thereby drawing ear wax out of the ear canal.

The risks of the procedure include skin or hair catching fire, serious burns, blockages of the ear canal from hot wax, and loss of hearing.

Health Canada says people should not practice ear candling. If you're concerned about ear wax, consult your doctor.

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