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Kiss with caution this Valentine's Day
Most of us have experienced an over-enthusiastic relative noisily kissing us on the ear and leaving it ringing but, it seems more amorous kissing really could make you deaf! "A normal, healthy eardrum is quite robust, so kissing is usually a completely harmless and pleasurable experience. However, in certain circumstances, such as the two cases highlighted above, there is more than likely an underlying medical condition such as an infection or a middle ear weakness that is responsible for bringing these unusual stories to our attention." "A strong kiss on the ear could possibly cause an imbalance in the air pressure within the ear, resulting in temporary or permanent hearing damage, or even a debilitating condition called Tinnitus which leaves sufferers with a constant ‘ringing’ in their ears. Whilst an over-zealous kiss on the mouth could do the same, depending on the level of suction used!" "So…Kissing could in theory be bad for your hearing, but it is however extremely unlikely, and cases like these are exceptionally rare"! says Richard. "My advice to all Oxfordshire lovers out there is to kiss with caution, but to carry on kissing this Valentine’s Day"! If you are concerned about your hearing or would like further information about Tinnitus, contact the Oxford Hearing Centre on 01865 861861 Tinnitus Awareness Week runs from the 9-15th Feb 2009. Oxford Hearing Centre www.oxfordhearingcentre.co.uk |
