Why Do I Cough When Cleaning My Ears?

Have you ever coughed while cleaning your ears? It’s a common experience for many people, and while it might seem strange, there’s actually a medical explanation behind it. Coughing when cleaning your ears is often caused by the stimulation of a nerve in your ear canal called the vagus nerve. This reflex is harmless, but it can be uncomfortable. In this article, we'll explore why this happens, how to avoid it, and answer some frequently asked questions related to ear care.

What Is Arnold's Cough Syndrome?

Arnold's Cough Syndrome, also known as Arnold’s Nerve Reflex, is a condition where stimulating the ear canal can trigger a sudden cough. This occurs because the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, which runs through the ear, becomes activated when the ear is touched or cleaned. For some people, this nerve is more sensitive, causing them to cough when their ear canal is stimulated, such as during cleaning or other activities like yawning.

This reflexive cough is generally harmless, but it can be surprising or annoying. Arnold's Cough Syndrome can affect a small percentage of people, and while it’s often triggered by activities like ear cleaning, it can happen during other situations where the ear is stimulated. The condition is named after Dr. Arnold, who first discovered the connection between the ear and the cough reflex.

What Percentage of People Cough When Cleaning Their Ears?

It’s estimated that around 10% of people experience coughing when cleaning their ears. This happens due to the stimulation of the vagus nerve, which runs through the ear canal. For some individuals, this nerve is more sensitive, triggering a reflexive cough in response to even mild stimulation.

While this percentage may seem relatively small, it’s a good reminder that everyone's body reacts differently. Some people may experience this reflex only occasionally, while others might find it happens every time they clean their ears. If you find yourself coughing every time you clean your ears, it’s likely due to the sensitivity of your vagus nerve.

Related: How to Avoid Itching When Wearing Hearing Aid Domes?

How to Avoid Coughing While Cleaning Ears

Coughing while cleaning your ears can be surprising, but there are a few simple ways to minimize the chances of triggering this reflex. Here are some tips to help you clean your ears safely without causing discomfort:

1. Be Gentle: Avoid inserting anything too deep into your ear canal. Using cotton swabs or other objects to poke deep inside the ear can irritate the sensitive area and trigger coughing. Stick to cleaning the outer ear gently with a soft cloth.

2. Use an Ear Camera Cleaner: If you need to clean your earwax, using an ear camera cleaner can be a great option. These devices allow you to safely remove earwax while seeing exactly what’s happening inside your ear. By offering a clear view, you can avoid overstimulation and reduce the risk of causing a reflex cough.

3. Avoid Over-Cleaning: You don’t need to clean your ears every day. In fact, over-cleaning can irritate the ear canal. Clean your ears only when necessary, such as when you notice excess earwax buildup.

4. Keep Ears Dry: Moisture in the ear canal can make it more sensitive. After a shower or swim, dry the outer ear with a towel to prevent irritation when cleaning. This can reduce sensitivity and minimize the chances of a cough.

5. Consult a Professional: If you find that coughing persists despite trying these methods, consider seeking professional help for ear cleaning. An audiologist or doctor can safely clean your ears and check for any underlying conditions that may be causing sensitivity.

By following these tips, you can make your ear cleaning routine more comfortable and avoid triggering that pesky cough reflex.

FAQs

How Often Should Ears Be Cleaned?

Ears generally don’t need to be cleaned on a daily basis. In fact, cleaning them too often can actually cause irritation or damage to the ear canal. Cleaning your ears once a week or whenever you notice a build-up of earwax is typically sufficient. Your ears are self-cleaning; the natural movement of your jaw helps to push earwax out over time, so frequent cleaning may not be necessary.

If you use ear cleaning tools, such as cotton swabs, make sure to be gentle and avoid pushing them too deep into the ear canal. Pushing earwax deeper can cause blockages and may even lead to injury. In some cases, professional ear cleaning from an audiologist or healthcare provider is recommended to ensure safe removal of earwax, especially if you experience discomfort or excessive buildup.

How Quickly Does Earwax Form?

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is produced by specialized glands in your ear canal to protect your ears from dust, dirt, bacteria, and even insects. The process of earwax formation varies from person to person, but it typically takes a few weeks for earwax to accumulate to the point where cleaning is necessary. For most people, earwax naturally works its way out of the ear canal without requiring any intervention.

However, some individuals may produce more earwax than others, leading to a quicker buildup. Certain factors like genetics, ear shape, environment, or health conditions can influence the amount of earwax your ears produce. If you find yourself needing to clean your ears more often due to a buildup of wax, or if you experience symptoms like ear discomfort, hearing loss, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it may be helpful to consult a doctor or audiologist.

Why Do I Cough When I Brush My Teeth?

Coughing while brushing your teeth, especially when cleaning the back of the mouth, is often caused by a gag reflex. The gag reflex is an automatic response that helps prevent choking. When you brush the back molars or your tongue, especially if the toothbrush touches the soft palate or throat, it can trigger this reflex. As a result, your body might respond with a cough to clear the sensation or prevent choking.

This is completely normal, and many people experience it. Some individuals may be more sensitive to the gag reflex, making it more likely that they will cough when brushing. To reduce the chance of triggering a gag reflex, try brushing your teeth with a toothbrush that has a smaller head or adjusting your brushing technique to avoid the back of the mouth.

Conclusion

Coughing while cleaning your ears can be surprising, but it’s usually harmless and linked to a reflexive response from the vagus nerve. By cleaning your ears gently and using the right ear cleaning tools, like an ear camera cleaner, you can minimize discomfort and ensure a safe cleaning process. Tools such as the Bebird ear cleaning system offer a precise and gentle way to maintain ear hygiene while reducing the risk of triggering a cough reflex.

Related: Can an Ear Infection Cause Tooth Pain?