A particularly pointy pot plant has been the cause of several traumatic ear injuries in Australia in recent years.
A new study has revealed at least 28 people have been stabbed in the ear by the humble yucca plant since 2012.
With its long, sword-shaped leaves, doctors are warning people to be weary of the spiky plant after an increase in ear trauma cases.
With its long, sword-shaped leaves, doctors are warning people to be weary of the yucca plant after an increase in ear trauma cases
Professor Stephen O’Leary, one of the authors of the study, told Sydney Morning Herald the plant poses a legitimate threat, even if it sounds laughable.
‘You wouldn’t think that a little pointy leaf that goes into your ear could possibly cause serious injury [but] it’s more like a fencing sword; it’s narrow enough to get right down through the ear drum,’ Professor O’Leary said.
The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital have seen several cases of yucca-related injuries, most of which have involved a perforated eardrum.
But in four of the most severe cases, the spiky plant penetrated the inner-ear, causing fluid to leak out.
A new study has revealed at least 28 people have been stabbed in the ear by the humble yucca plant since 2012
The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (pictured) have seen several cases of yucca-related injuries
In these four cases, the patients suffered permanent hearing loss.
While Professor O’Leary couldn’t say exactly how people were being injured by the plant, he guessed in an attempt to shield their eyes while moving the plant, patients have exposed their ears.
He said it was critical for the public to seek medical attention if they become dizzy after being stabbed by a yucca leaf.
Plant owners should not be scared off their yucca, but should think about trimming leaves and placing it in an area where it can’t be a threat.
‘You might want to think about giving it a bit of a haircut – and just think about where those spiky little fronds are pointing,’ Professor O’Leary said.