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The Hazards Of Ear Candling
(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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