According to ENT specialists, earwax protects our ears from multiple things that can hurt our eardrums, like hair, dust, and even small insects. Although earwax is dirty and should be cleaned off, it has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Certain factors can affect the earwax amount, including if you have undergone any ear trauma or surgery, wearing deep earplugs or hearing aids, and recurrent ear infections.
- How can you remove earwax?
According to specialists, sometimes removing earwax can lead to more problems. Our ears work like self-cleaning ovens. The wax will come out on its own when the outer skin layer of the ear canal sheds off.
However, if earwax is causing a nuisance, here are undoubtedly easy and safe ear-cleaning methods to apply:
- Ear cleaning drops
When the amount of earwax is less, you can approach over-the-counter earwax cleaners. The drops contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps to break down the wax particulars. But remember, it may not show the result when the wax amount is more.
- Olive or mineral oil
According to many ENT specialists, putting olive oil in the ears before cleaning helps pull out the wax more easily. It can help lubricate the canals of your ears. You can even substitute it with coconut oil, baby oil, or glycerin.
- Ear wax removal with hooks, forceps, and probes
It can help you remove a large amount of earwax or a chunk of the wax piece by breaking it into small bits. You need to be cautious if you have blood thinners because otherwise, it can lead to bleeding during the cleaning process.
- Ear bulb syringe
When ear-cleaning drops do not work, your ears might need flushing with the help of a bulb syringe available at grocery or drug stores. Fill the syringe using warm water and place it just near the opening of your ear; squeeze the bulb carefully. Your ear will be flooded with warm water. This will help in breaking the wax particles. Turn your head sideways over a bathtub or sink and allow the water to flow. This will also include debris and ear wax.
Points to note down: Avoid this process if you have holes in your eardrums or if you have undergone eardrum surgery in the past. It’s because flushing can damage the eardrum repair. Also, ensure that the water you use for flushing is not too hot or cold. The temperature difference can make you feel dizzy if it’s icy or hot. Click on source: earandallergyclinic.com/ear-wax-removal-singapore-earwax-extractions-cleaning to know more.
- Dangerous earwax removal process to avoid:
There are some earwax removal processes, which should be avoided at all costs. These include:
- Inserting small objects for cleaning like pen caps and bobby pins.
- Ear candles
- Cotton swabs
If you have an earwax problem, it’s always best to approach a doctor. An ENT specialist can decide if the condition of your earwax needs immediate attention or if you can handle it further without any assistance. You can even discuss home remedies for wax removal with your doctor; it ensures complete safety.
