Health Risks And Side Effects Of Ear Candling

Developing A Secondary Infection

Patients who undergo ear candling may be at risk of developing a secondary infection, and children and the elderly face an even higher risk of secondary infections with this procedure. Ear candling is typically carried out at spas or alternative health centers that may not offer a sterile environment. The ear candles themselves are not sterile, and the place in which the procedure is carried out may not follow any infection control protocols. Since ear candling introduces a foreign body into the ear, any debris, bacteria, or viruses on the candle could enter the patient's body. The most common types of secondary infections that are developed after ear candling are secondary infections of the ear canal. In addition to ear pain and hearing loss, patients with these infections could develop a fever, and surgery may be required to treat severe infections. Patients who have had ear candling may wish to visit an ear, nose, and throat specialist to be evaluated for potential infections.