OCD from ear cleaRing?

Question

hi i have been living with this problem for almost a year now, sometimes i get the urge to lift my mouth and clear my ears multiple times, even when there's no reason to, i've done it when i don't realize i'm doing it and i've done it to the point of a light headache, is there anyone that can tell me if this really is a disorder and a treatment for it, and if theres anywhere on the internet that might have anything to do with what i have. ALSO: Is the constant motion doing damage internally to my face or head anywhere?.... YES i will be seeing a doctor soon, and i just can't quit it, it really gives me an understanding of how hard it is to quit things like when smokers try, MUCH easier said then DONE, ok thanks

Answer 1

Though you may think it is just a habit, you likely have an anxiety disorder.  Look not just at the ear popping, but also at your worries about the problems it may be causing.  You may have developed a compulsion to do the ear popping, subconsciously feeling that it's performing some magical benefit to you and at the same time worried you are damaging yourself.

Obviously it is of concern to you, so the first thing you need to do is talk to your doctor so they can make sure you have no physical problem with your ears.  If you have a clean bill of health there, then you need to talk to a therapist about learning ways that you can stop doing this.  

Best of luck to you.