If you swab your ear with a q tip and think it goes back too far really hurts what does this mean?

It is not recommended to use q-tips to clean your ears, as they can cause damage to the ear canal and eardrum. If you have inserted a q-tip into your ear and it feels like it has gone in too far and is causing pain, it's important to seek medical attention from an ear, nose and throat (otolaryngologist). Pain and discomfort in the ear canal can indicate various issues that may require professional evaluation and treatment. Here's what it could mean:

1. Earwax Blockage:

Excessive earwax buildup can cause a feeling of fullness, hearing impairment, and discomfort. Inserting a q-tip too deeply can push earwax further into the ear canal, causing impaction and pain.

2. Ruptured Eardrum:

The eardrum is a delicate membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. If the q-tip is pushed forcefully or too deeply, it can puncture or rupture the eardrum. Ruptures can cause sudden intense pain, hearing changes, and sometimes bleeding or discharge from the ear.

3. Infection or Inflammation:

The ear canal is susceptible to infections and inflammation. Inserting a q-tip into the ear canal can introduce bacteria, leading to an infection. Inflammation and swelling can also result from tissue damage caused by the q-tip.

4. Damage to the Ear Canal:

The delicate skin of the ear canal can be easily scratched or irritated by q-tips. This damage can lead to pain, inflammation, and increased susceptibility to infections.

If you have pain after swabbing your ear with a q-tip, it's essential to seek prompt medical attention. Your healthcare provider can assess the situation, rule out any serious issues, and recommend the appropriate treatment or care for your ears.