Cerumen Removal
Cerumen, commonly referred to as earwax, is produced by the glands within the ears to moisturize the ear canals and prevent dust and debris from penetrating too deeply.
While cerumen usually self-clears, it can occasionally build up and lead to a blockage.
Symptoms of such a blockage include:
Earache
Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
Hearing loss
Ear pressure
If a blockage arises, it may require removal, which can be performed at home or by a healthcare professional, depending on the blockage’s size and severity.
How Not to Remove Earwax Buildup
Many people use cotton swabs to try to clear earwax or remove a blockage. However, this practice can lead to additional issues, as cotton swabs might push the blockage deeper into the ear canal, increasing the risk of harm.
There is also the chance of accidentally inserting cotton swabs too far, which can damage your ear and even rupture your eardrum.
Medical professionals mostly agree that using cotton swabs to remove earwax is not advisable; they should only be used on the outer ear. It is important to avoid inserting cotton swabs or any small objects into the ear canal.
At-Home Earwax Removal
In certain cases, your doctor may provide patients with a kit for earwax removal to use at home. You can also buy these kits at most pharmacies without a prescription.
Generally, these kits include a solution that helps to soften earwax and a small rubber bulb syringe. You'll receive instructions on how much and how frequently to apply the solution in your ear canals, allowing it to sit for a while to soften the wax. It's normal to experience bubbling and fizzing sensations while using the solution.
After that, you will use the bulb syringe to gently rinse your ears with warm water to clear out the earwax. It may take a few days to completely remove any earwax blockages. Some individuals and certain ear conditions may not be suitable for these kits. Before trying to remove earwax at home, it is recommended to consult your doctor to ensure it is safe for you.
Removal at Your Doctor’s Office
If the earwax buildup is more severe, a doctor may need to remove it in their office. Medical professionals usually use one of two techniques for earwax removal: irrigation or curettage.
Irrigation is the most commonly used method, and a doctor may apply stronger earwax removal solutions along with this technique. Carbamide peroxide is usually the main ingredient in these solutions. The less frequent technique is curettage, which uses a curette, a long, curved instrument that works with suction to gently scrape earwax from the ear canal.
If you feel pain or discomfort due to earwax or think you have a blockage, it’s important to visit your doctor promptly for help. Earwax removal should not be painful and should provide you with relief.
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