30/11/2025
MAN'S HARMFUL PRACTICES TO THE EARS THAT MAY HAVE SEVERE CONSEQUENCES ON HEARING.
1. SELF-MEDICATION.
Self-medication refers to the practice of using medications or remedies without a doctor's prescription or guidance to treat oneself. This can include using leftover medications, sharing prescription medications with family and friends, or relying on alternative therapies without consulting a healthcare professional.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines self-medication as "the selection and use of medicines by individuals to treat self-recognized illnesses or symptoms." WHO recognizes self-medication as a common practice worldwide, particularly in developing countries where access to healthcare services may be limited. It emphasizes that self-medication can be a responsible practice if done properly, but it can also lead to risks such as delayed diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions, adverse reactions, interactions with other medications, development of antibiotic resistance, and wasting of healthcare resources.
Some causes of self-medication include:
- Lifestyle factors such as busy schedules, lack of time, and ease of access to medications.
- Limited access to or scarcity of healthcare services and unaffordable healthcare costs.
- Financial constraints and high costs of healthcare services and medications.
- Cultural and social factors, including traditional practices, family influences, and social networks.
- Lack of awareness and limited knowledge about medications, their side effects, and proper use.
- Advertising and promotion of over-the-counter medications and alternative therapies.
- Relying on previous experiences for similar symptoms.
Common ENT conditions that people often self-medicate include:
- Common cold
- Ear infections, including pain and discharge
- Sore throat
- Sinusitis
- Hearing reduction/loss
- Tinnitus
- Earwax
- Nasal congestion
- Allergic rhinitis
- Tonsillitis
- Laryngitis
Consequences of self-medication in treating ENT conditions include:
- Antibiotic resistance
- Interactions with other medications
- Masking symptoms
- Ear damage
- Hearing loss
- Tinnitus
- Indiscriminate use of drugs during pregnancy, can lead to hearing abnormalities in the new born.
- Otitis media
- Mastoiditis
- Meningitis
- Increased risk of complications
- Permanent damage
- Financial burden
The WHO recommends responsible self-medication practices, including:
- Educating individuals about proper medication use and potential risks
- Ensuring access to reliable information about medications
- Promoting healthcare professional guidance for self-medication
- Regulating the sale and promotion of medications.
If you are experiencing ear or hearing problems, it is essential to consult a qualified healthcare professional, such as an ENT specialist, for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can provide personalized guidance and recommend effective treatment options to ensure your safety and optimal care.
Ochin GN
