Earwax helps keep your ear canal and eardrum free of debris and dirt, says the Mayo Clinic. In most cases, ear wax does not need to be removed. If the wax builds up inside the ear canal and causes a blockage, you may experience ringing in the ears, pain or difficulty hearing. According to the Mayo Clinic, ear wax blockage can be treated at home. If ear wax cannot be removed with at-home treatments, consult a doctor for additional care.
Step 1
Dislodge hardened earwax by placing oil in the ear, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Place two drops of mineral oil or baby oil into the ear canal. Repeat the process twice a day for four days to remove the wax from deep inside the canal.
Step 2
Flush the ear out with water using an over-the-counter ear irrigation kit, recommends otolaryngologist, George W. Facer, M.D. Purchase an ear irrigation kit with a bulb syringe at the drugstore. Plunge the syringe into a bowl of water, then place the tip of the syringe into the ear. Squeeze the bulb to spray the water into the ear, then tip your head over the bowl to pour out the water and trapped wax.
Step 3
Dry out the ear canal completely after showering or irrigating the ear, notes the Mayo Clinic. Using a towel, carefully dab the outside of the ear and the opening of the ear canal.
Step 4
Place a drop of an ear wax removal medication, like carbamide peroxide drops, in the ear. Carbamide peroxide may be effective for individuals who experience chronic ear wax buildup. Purchase carbamide peroxide drops at the drugstore. In some cases, carbamide peroxide may cause ear irritation.
Step 5
Consult a doctor. If your ear wax is so impacted, it cannot be cleared with home remedies, your doctor can insert a curette into your ear to scoop out the wax, says medical website, KidsHealth.com. A curette is a curved metal or plastic instrument that removes ear wax without scraping or puncturing the ear canal.
Tips and Warnings
- If you don't have baby oil or mineral oil, pour a few drops of hydrogen peroxide into the ear.
- Do not poke inside the ear with a cotton swab or any other pointy object, says the Mayo Clinic.
Things You'll Need
- Mineral oil or baby oil
- Over-the-counter ear irrigation kit
- Towel
- Carbamide peroxide
