Doctors are experts, and will be able to diagnose the problem accurately. It is difficult to see inside your ear on your own. You can easily damage your inner ears if you use improper tools or techniques to clean them. Cotton swabs, napkins, pins, etc. should not be inserted into your ears. [2] X Expert Source Monica Kieu, DO, FACSBoard Certified Otolaryngologist Expert Interview. 20 October 2020.
Applying special drops into the ear canal to soften the wax Using a suction device to pull the wax out Rinsing the ear with warm water or a saline solution applied using a bulb syringe A device called a curette or cerumen loop or spoon can also be used to manually remove the earwax. [4] X Research source These treatments can take place in your doctor’s office.
If you have an infection of the ear canal, such as otitis external or otitis media, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. These might be taken orally, or applied as drops into your ear canal Additionally, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or decongestants to reduce swelling and allow your ear to drain. Use all medications exactly as instructed. Drink plenty of fluids (at least eight glasses of water a day) to stay hydrated, especially if you have fever or infection. Keep your ears dry while recovering. Applying a warm, damp (not wet) towel to your outer ear as a compress may alleviate pain. Do this for 15 – 20 minutes several times a day.
Inserting things into your ears can push buildup deeper into your ears, rather than drawing it out. This can make the problem worse, as well as cause decreased hearing ability. You can puncture the eardrum, which is thin and delicate. [7] X Research source This can cause a ruptured ear drum. [8] X Research source Foreign objects inserted in your ear can irritate or damage the skin. [9] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source Ear candling is dangerous and appears to be ineffective. You can burn yourself with hot wax or flame from the candle, and may even perforate your inner ear. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Apply over-the-counter drops that soften earwax. Look for ones that contain carbamide peroxide. Apply drops of mineral oil, baby oil, glycerine, or hydrogen peroxide into your ears. Use an over-the-counter earwax removal kit. These contain a rubber syringe to use warm water to flush the earwax out. [12] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source The things you need for these treatments should be available at pharmacies. You may even be able to find earwax removal kits at pharmacies that will include a rubber ball syringe and instructions for use.
If you are using a liquid such as mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or hydrogen peroxide, apply a few drops of into your ear using an eyedropper. After a day or two, the wax should be softened. You can use a rubber bulb syringe to gently squirt some warm water into your ear. Lean your head back, and gently pull on your outer ear. This will open up your ear canal. Once the water is in your ear, tilt your ear to the other side to let the water drain out. Afterwards, dry your outer ear with a dowel or hair dryer. You may have to repeat this process a few times for it to work. If it doesn’t seem to help after a few attempts, contact your doctor.
When swimming, you can wear a swim cap. Use a towel to dry your outer ears when they become wet. If water gets in your inner ears, try tilting your head and holding it in that position until the water can run out. Pulling lightly on your earlobe can also open up your ear canal and make it easier for the water to drain out. You can also use a blow dryer on a low setting to dry your ears; hold it several inches away from your ears.
If you wear a hearing aid, you are at a greater risk of ear problems. Have your ears checked three to four times a year by a doctor to catch and treat any issues. [18] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Let your doctor know if you notice any unusual symptoms related to your ears (such as a non-wax discharge, severe pain, or significant hearing difficulties), or if you are unsure of their condition. [19] X Research source
