The Reading Room

Product monographs, written by an ENT surgeon.

The Reading Room holds the longer write-ups behind each product — what the ingredient does, what the evidence actually shows, and when the honest answer is to buy nothing at all. Every monograph is written or reviewed by Dr. Joshua Stramiello, a board-certified otolaryngologist.

What is on the shelf

• Earwax and how to soften it at home. Why wax is normal, when it needs help, and why cotton swabs make it worse.
• Mineral oil versus olive oil. What actually differs between the two, and how to choose.
• Coconut oil in the ear. What it does, what it does not do, and who should skip it.
• Swimmer’s ear. Prevention for people who are in the water often.
• Dry, itchy ears. Common causes and the simple fixes worth trying first.
• Snoring and chin support. Why the jaw matters, and the difference between snoring and sleep apnea.

A word on what you will not find

No monograph here promises a cure, and none of the preparations in the catalog is medicated. If something in your ear hurts, drains, bleeds or has changed your hearing, the right next step is a clinician, not a bottle.

Read the full pieces in The Dispatch, or write to support@otoanthro.com with a question.