Earwax protects the inner ear from foreign particles, such as dust or bacteria. It provides a sticky surface for these particles to stick to, preventing them from migrating deeper into the ear. As earwax becomes full of particles, it migrates to the surface of the ear and falls out on its own. However, sometimes earwax can become impacted inside the ear, causing a blockage. This blockage is typically produced through probing the ear with cotton swabs, fingers or other objects. There are several ways to remedy the problem.
Home Softening
One of the first ways to address earwax removal is to try softening the wax at home. Softening the wax can be done by putting a few drops of softening liquids, such as hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, baby oil or glycerin, into the ears over the period of five days.
Home Irrigation
Once the ear wax has been softened, irrigate the ears to remove the softened ear wax. For light blockages, the Mayo Clinic recommends a rubber-bulb syringe to irrigate the ears. For more stubborn blockages, an at-home irrigation kit which includes an irrigation syringe can be purchased from drug stores or online.
Water Pick
When home methods are not successful in removing ear wax, your doctor may use a professional water pick to irrigate the ears. During this process, pressurized water or saline solution is directed into the affected ear, loosening and forcing the wax from the canal.
Curette
Your doctor may also use a curette to manually remove ear wax from the ear. A curette is a curved instrument that is small enough to fit into the ear canal. Your doctor can use this instrument to manipulate and loosen the earwax, helping pull the wax from the ear.
Suction
Suction may also be used by your doctor to remove earwax. Suction can be used either on its own or in tandem with a curette or water pick. Suction creates a vacuum in the ear which can suck loosened ear wax from deeper areas of the inner ear.
Cotton Swabs
Cotton swabs should never be used to remove ear wax from the ear, notes the American Academy of Otolaryngology. Cotton swabs can pack the wax deeper into the ear, causing a more serious blockage. A cloth can be used to wipe ear wax that has migrated onto the outer ear, but nothing should be placed inside the inner ear.
