- With Mayo Clinic endocrinologist
Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.
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Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.
Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.
Dr. Todd Nippoldt is a board-certified specialist in internal medicine and endocrinology and metabolism. He has special expertise in the area of hormone disorders affecting the pituitary and adrenal glands as well as the testes and ovaries. He has been a member of the Mayo Clinic staff since 1988.
Dr. Nippoldt is a consultant in the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nutrition and works with patients who have disorders of the hormone-producing glands. Common disorders include diabetes, thyroid problems, osteoporosis and elevated cholesterol levels.
He also is involved in andrology, the study of male hormonal disorders, male infertility and sexual dysfunction and is an assistant professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine.
Dr. Nippoldt, a St. Paul, Minn., native, has also contributed to "Mayo Clinic Health Letter," a Mayo Clinic CD-ROM and the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book." He is a fellow in the American College of Physicians and a member of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, the American Society of Andrology, The Endocrine Society, The Pituitary Society and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.
"I have found that those patients who have gone to the Internet and obtained accurate medical information come to their appointment with me very well informed, and the discussions regarding the evaluation and management of their condition are very productive and satisfying," he says.
"The key, however, is obtaining accurate medical information. As a medical editor for MayoClinic.com, I hope to be able to ensure that accurate, relevant and up-to-date information is available for patients and their families."
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Question
Ear candling: Is it safe?
Is ear candling an effective way to remove excess earwax?
Answer
from Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.
Ear candling — a technique that involves placing a lighted, hollow, cone-shaped candle into your ear — is not recommended. The theory is that the heat from the flame will create a vacuum seal, and the earwax will adhere to the candle. But, research has found that ear candling doesn't work and it may be dangerous. There have been reports of people burning their skin with the flame from the candle and also starting their hair on fire.
A doctor trained in ear-cleaning techniques with the proper equipment is a much safer and more effective option for removing earwax buildup. The old adage, "Don't put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear" is still good advice.
