Impacted ear wax, or ear wax blockages, are a leading cause of hearing loss, notes the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, or AAO-HNS. Blockages can also cause discomfort, earaches, itching, odor, noises in the ears, discharge and coughing. One of the main contributors to ear wax impactions is improper wax removal techniques. In particular, attempting to remove wax with a cotton-tipped swab or other implement can cause blockages. Rather than remove wax, this method simply pushes most of it further into the ear canal, explains AAO-HNS. There is a more effective way to get rid of ear wax at home.
Step 1
Choose a softening agent to use on your ear wax. Baby or mineral oil, glycerin, over-the-counter ear drops, hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are effective options suggested by the National Institutes of Health. The Ear, Nose and Throat Center, or ENTC, recommends diluting hydrogen peroxide by mixing it with an equal amount of lukewarm water. For a slightly stronger solution, ENTC says you can use a mixture of equal parts isopropyl alcohol and white vinegar.
Step 2
Drop a few drops of your softening agent into your ear with an eye dropper while lying on your side. Straighten the ear canal while administering the drops by using your free hand to gently pull the outer flap of your ear back and up. Remain in this position for about five minutes, giving the softening agent time to soak into the ear wax.
Step 3
Sit up and gently squirt a small stream of lukewarm water into the treated ear with a rubber bulb syringe. Do this a few times, until no more wax runs out of the ear. Wax may come out more readily if you irrigate with saline water, notes ENTC. When finished, wipe your outer ear with a clean, dry towel.
Tips and Warnings
- Stubborn ear wax blockages may be more remediable if you soften the wax on a daily basis for a few days prior to irrigating with water, according to MayoClinic.com.
- Don't perform ear wax removal at home if you have a perforated ear drum or ear tube. Also, ENTC advises caution if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system. In these instances, it's advisable to let your doctor remove ear wax blockages. Never use hot or cold fluids in your ear; all liquids should be around room temperature. Hot or cold fluids will cause dizziness, possibly severe.
Things You'll Need
- Hydrogen peroxide or other softener
- Eye dropper
- Rubber bulb syringe
