While it is considered a more comfortable and painless alternative to medical treatments such as ear surgery and syringing, ear candle treatment does carry risks. Having a lit candle inserted into the ear requires expert handling and supervision in order to avoid potential problems such as a punctured eardrum or burns to the face, hair, scalp, ear canal, eardrum and middle ear.
It is also advised that the treatment is not carried out too soon after any form of ear surgery and if a client has any of the following:
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cysts in the ears
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high blood pressure
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on-going ear or sinus infections
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cochlear implants
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allergies to any products in the candle
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inflammation in the ears
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perforated eardrums
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grommets or tubes in the ears
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acute otosclerosis (an abnormal bone growth in the middle ear)
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mastoiditis (an infection of the mastoid bone behind the ear)
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difficulty breathing around small amounts of smoke.
Generally, ear candling is a safe, simple and relaxing holistic remedy helpful in relieving a range of ailments – as long as the treatment is not used excessively or carried out incorrectly. This is why it is important to seek out a qualified practitioner who is able to carry out ear candle treatment professionally.
What qualifications do therapists need to have?
When searching for ear candling therapy near you, the qualifications of a therapist and the types of ear candles they use are crucial for ensuring the safest and most effective treatment.
There are currently no laws with regards to what training a therapist must have to practice ear candle treatment, however there are professional bodies that therapists can choose to register with.