CHHA - Manitoba

Ear Candling - Caution:  A local Winnipeg spa has been offering ear candling to its clients.  CHHA Manitoba Chapter does not recommend this procedure, and encourages anyone with ear wax or other ear problems to see a qualified medical doctor or hearing specialist.  According to Health Canada, ear candling is not effective in removing ear wax and it also poses the risk of serious injury.  In fact, the sale of ear candles is not legal in Canada.  You can read a report about ear candling procedures, research, risks, regulations and recommendations on Health Canada's web site by clicking this link.

Update - May 2010.  In the US, the FDA recently advised 16 companies that ear candles are unapproved medical devices that cannot be legally marketed in interstate commerce.

Over-the-counter eardrops:  A study conducted by the Montreal Children's Hospital concludes that some over-the-counter earwax softeners can cause severe damage to the eardrum and inner ear.  For more information contact Lisa Dutton, Manager, Public Relations and Communications MCH (514) 412-4307, or email lisa.dutton@muhc.mcgill.ca.