Safe Ways to Remove Earwax

Earwax is an essential part of our auditory system, but when it accumulates, it can cause discomfort and hearing loss. Fortunately, there are a few ways to address this issue safely.

In this article, we’ll explore the safest ways to remove earwax, breaking down everything from the self-cleaning mechanisms of your ear to common myths about earwax removal.

Understanding the Self-Cleaning Mechanism of Your Ears

Before you clean your ears, it’s important to understand their self-cleaning mechanisms. Proper ear cleaning does not replace this process but instead supplements it. 

Earwax is produced by glands in the ear canal and plays a crucial role in ear health. It traps dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the delicate structures of the middle and inner ear. 

Your ears have a self-cleaning mechanism that involves the natural movement of earwax from the inner part of the ear canal to the opening. This process is facilitated by the jaw movements associated with talking and chewing, which help push the earwax outward.

As the earwax moves outward, it gradually dries and falls out or is washed away naturally. This self-cleaning mechanism is highly effective and generally does not require any intervention. 

Inserting foreign objects, such as cotton swabs, can disrupt this natural process. Instead of removing earwax, these objects often push the wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction and potential injury to the eardrum and ear canal.

Exploring the Best Ways to Remove Earwax

In some cases, this self-cleaning mechanism can be obstructed, causing earwax to accumulate and creating an uncomfortable blockage. When this happens, you’ll need to leverage one of the following tactics for safe removal:

• Professional removal
• Ear drops
• Water and cloth

Professional Removal

Seeing a healthcare professional for earwax removal is often the safest option, especially if the blockage is causing significant pain or discomfort. Professionals use specialized tools and techniques to remove earwax without damaging the ear canal or eardrum. Professional removal is especially recommended for individuals with recurring blockages, hearing aid users, or those with a history of ear problems. For more information, visit El Dorado Hearing.

Ear Drops

Over-the-counter ear drops can soften and break down earwax, making it easier for the body to expel naturally. Commonly used ear drops include hydrogen peroxide solutions, which help to soften earwax and release oxygen bubbles that aid in breaking it down, and oil-based drops like olive oil, almond oil, or mineral oil, which can lubricate the ear canal and facilitate earwax removal. Use ear drops as directed on the packaging or by your healthcare provider. If you experience pain, dizziness, or discharge, discontinue use and consult a professional.

Water and Cloth

For mild earwax buildup, a gentle irrigation method can be effective. This method be done in the shower, but the safest way is with a sterilized bulb syringe:

1. Warm Water: Fill a bulb syringe with warm (not hot) sterile water. 
2. Gentle Flushing: Tilt your head and gently squirt the warm water into your ear canal. 
3. Drain and Dry: Let the water and earwax drain out, then dry your ear with a clean cloth. 

It’s important to avoid this method if you have an ear infection or perforated eardrum. So, if your blockage is earwax accompanied by any pain, consult an audiologist or ENT specialist to ensure a safe removal.

Identifying When to Seek Professional Earwax Removal

If you experience symptoms such as severe pain, hearing loss, dizziness, or discharge from the ear, it’s crucial to seek professional help. These symptoms can indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention. 

Frequent blockages, especially if they interfere with your daily life or hearing aid use, also warrant a visit to a healthcare provider. Professional earwax removal ensures that the wax is removed safely and completely, reducing the risk of complications.

Getting Started with Professional Earwax Removal

If you experience frequent or severe earwax blockages, it’s crucial to get in touch with an expert as soon as possible. By doing so, you can address the cause and better prevent future blockages from occurring.

At El Dorado Hearing, our team of audiologists has years of experience in helping individuals improve both their hearing and comfort with earwax removal. So, if you’re struggling with earwax blockages, get in touch or take a quick quiz today!