Social media can be a great source of entertainment and quick tips, but when it comes to your health, not everything you see on TikTok or Instagram should be trusted. ENT health, which covers your ears, nose, and throat, is a particular area where misinformation spreads quickly online. Some trends might seem harmless, but others can actually cause damage or delay proper treatment. Here we look at some of the most common ENT myths that have gone viral and explain the truth behind them.
TikTok Tongue
This trend involves sticking out your tongue and filming it for self-diagnosis, with influencers claiming that tongue colour, shape, or coating can reveal underlying health issues. While doctors can sometimes spot certain conditions by looking at the tongue, social media oversimplifies the process and can cause unnecessary anxiety. Many harmless variations in tongue appearance are normal and do not indicate disease. If you have concerns about changes in your tongue, an ENT specialist or GP is the right person to assess it, not a viral video.
Garlic in the Ear for Ear Infections
Videos promoting putting a clove of garlic in your ear to cure infections have become popular. While garlic has some antibacterial properties, placing it in your ear can cause irritation, burns, or even push bacteria further inside. Ear infections need proper diagnosis, and depending on the cause, you may require antibiotic drops or other targeted treatments.
Nose Waxing for a Clean Look
Some social media influencers promote waxing the inside of your nose for a smooth, hair-free appearance. While it might look tidy, nasal hairs serve an important purpose, filtering out dust, allergens, and bacteria. Removing them entirely can increase the risk of infection and irritation. Trimming is fine, but waxing the inside of your nose is not recommended by ENT professionals.
Drinking Hydrogen Peroxide for Ear Health
One of the more dangerous trends suggests drinking diluted hydrogen peroxide to cleanse the body and improve ear health. This is not only ineffective for your ears, but it is also extremely unsafe. Ingesting hydrogen peroxide can cause burns, nausea, vomiting, and serious internal damage. Any ear cleaning should be external and ideally done by a professional if wax buildup is an issue.
Spicy Food as a Cure for Sinus Infections
It is true that eating spicy food can cause a temporary runny nose or help mucus drain, but it does not cure sinus infections. Infections caused by bacteria or fungi require proper medical treatment, and even viral sinus issues may need supportive care. Relying on spicy food instead of seeking medical advice can allow an infection to worsen.
Humming to Clear Blocked Sinuses
Some videos claim that humming can clear blocked sinuses and cure sinus problems. While humming may create vibrations that help open nasal passages temporarily, it is not a treatment for sinus infections or chronic congestion. If your sinuses remain blocked for more than a week, it is worth seeking an ENT assessment to rule out underlying causes such as polyps, allergies, or structural issues.
Ear Candling for Wax Removal
Ear candling, where a hollow candle is placed in the ear and lit to supposedly draw out earwax, is a persistent trend. There is no scientific evidence that it works, and it can cause burns, ear canal blockages, and even perforated eardrums. ENT specialists recommend safer, proven methods for wax removal such as ear drops or professional cleaning.
Final Word on Social Media ENT Trends
While some online health tips are harmless, others can be ineffective or even dangerous. If you see a trend claiming to treat ENT issues, it is worth checking with a qualified professional before trying it. At London ENT, we provide evidence-based care for ear, nose, and throat problems, ensuring patients get safe and effective treatment tailored to their needs.