Do you have any of these six types of cleanliness obsession? Beware of potential health risks.

Generally speaking, obsessive cleanliness is being too hygienic. Being clean is a good thing, but over-focusing on cleanliness to the point it affects normal study, work, and life—especially social interactions—is problematic. Additionally, it can pose health risks. Experts from the Second Hospital of Lanzhou University remind us that if people with obsessive cleanliness exhibit any of the following six aspects, they should be cautious about potential underlying hazards.

1. Excessive Ear Cleaning

Using cotton swabs to clean ears can not only lead to impacted earwax and inflammation but also potentially cause eardrum rupture. In fact, the ear canal doesn't need artificial cleaning. A few individuals may experience discomfort from earwax buildup, but this can be resolved by simply using hydrogen peroxide ear drops or mineral oil, even olive oil.

2. Frequent Nose Blowing

Doctors in the otolaryngology department at the Second Hospital of Lanzhou University warn that they often encounter patients who slightly feel uncomfortable in their nasal cavity and excessively use nasal spray. Overusing nasal sprays can cause nasal swelling and congestion, even affecting blood pressure. Therefore, nasal sprays or drops are not recommended for long-term use. Next time your nose feels blocked, you can buy saline spray from the pharmacy. Saline can moisturize the dry nasal cavity and relieve nasal congestion without side effects. Using antihistamines or steaming your face can also help dilute mucus in the nasal cavity.

3. Constant Nail Cutting

Frequent nail trimming can cause nails to grow into the flesh. In severe cases, it might lead to bone inflammation or ulcers, which could result in amputation.

4. Brushing Teeth Too Hard

Brushing teeth shouldn't be too forceful; otherwise, it can damage enamel and gum tissue. Brushing too hard will wear away the cementum covering the root, leading to tooth sensitivity, decay, or malformation.

5. Over-Cleaning Skin

Nearly half of men don't wash their hands after using the restroom, which is certainly unhygienic. However, some people repeatedly wash their hands but still feel they aren't clean enough, continuing to scrub until the skin's surface is damaged, nerve endings are stimulated, causing skin swelling and itching. Excessive cleanliness may lead to a loss of natural oils on the body's surface, resulting in various skin problems.

6. Excessive Washing of Private Areas

Not maintaining hygiene definitely poses health risks. Feces lingering around the anus can cause various itchy inflammations, but the itchy sensation might also be caused by excessive cleaning. Experts from the Guangdong Armed Police Hospital introduce that when you excessively wipe or wash the anal area with paper or water, its natural oils will be completely removed, leading to dryness and itching.