How to safely remove EAR WAX at home

Cerumen, or ear wax, is a vital substance that should not be ignored. It is an ear moisturizer that prevents foreign bodies such as dirt, debris, and bacteria from entering the ear canal. But excessive ear wax can also create problems like pain, hearing difficulties, and even infections in the ear. Proper and safe measures should be taken for ear wax removal at home in case of an accumulation. To do this correctly without getting hurt, read the following guide.

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Understanding Ear Wax

So before we get onto the specifics of how to remove ear wax, it is essential to know what ear wax is. It is normal for the body to have ear wax, and for the average persons, it will go away on its own. However, some people will go through excessive wax accumulation and the most common reasons of ear wax buildup are:

Genetics

Some individuals have a higher tendency to have more ear wax than the normal population.

Environment

presence of excessive dust or contaminants may cause excessive ear wax.

Ear canal shape

Some people have an abnormal ear canal that may prevent wax's natural evacuation.

Use of earbuds or hearing aids

These devices can serve to internalize ear wax.

Signs of Ear Wax Buildup

It is important to recognize symptoms of excessive ear wax for timely intervention. Common signs include:

Hearing loss or muffled hearing
Earache or discomfort
Itching in the ear canal
A feeling of fullness in the ear
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Safe Home Removal Techniques

Here are some safe methods to remove ear wax at home:

Use Ear Drops

Ear drops are easily available in pharmacies and meant to soften earwax tend to work. For such products look for those that contain hydrogen peroxide, saline or carbamide peroxide. To use:
Lie down on the opposite side of the affected ear.
Pour the recommended number of drops into the ear canal.
Stay in that position for some time to allow the solution to work.

Warm Water Irrigation

Irrigation to remove softened wax:
To prepare: Mix equal parts of warm water and 3% hydrogen peroxide It needs to be warm, not cold or too hot.

Use bulb syringe or soft flexible ear syringe.
Lean over a basin, float your head and carefully press the solution in your ear.
Let it sit for a few moments, then tilt your head to let the solution — and wax — drain out.

Use a Bulb Syringe

If the earwax has softened sufficiently, you can flush out the ear:
Attach to the syringe, warm water or saline.
Bend over a sink, pull your outer ear up and back to straighten the ear canal, and squeeze the bulb gently to direct water into your ear. Let the water drain out.

Avoid Cotton Swabs

Although it may be tempting, cotton swabs can force wax further into the ear canal, damaging it. You can use a washcloth to clean the outer ear rather than the ear canal.

When to seek doctor help

If your home remedies do not solve the problem, or if you have pain, significant hearing loss, or dizziness, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional. However, a healthcare professional can use special tools to safely remove earwax.