Earwax is a naturally occurring substance that lubricates and protects the ears. Also called cerumen, earwax helps keep the ear clear of bacteria and other debris. As part of the cleaning process, earwax flows from the ear canals, clearing the ears in the process, without assistance. However, sometimes earwax becomes excessive and hardens and becomes trapped in the ear canal. If you have hearing loss, pain or ringing in the ears due to earwax buildup or an itchy feeling in your ears, the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery recommends using a hydrogen peroxide solution to soften the earwax, enabling it to drain from the ear canals.
Step 1
Fill a dropper or bulb syringe with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution.
Step 2
Lay on on your side or tilt your head so that the affected ear is facing up.
Step 3
Pull, slightly, on your ear lobe. This will help to straighten out your ear canal.
Step 4
Drop five to 10 drops of the peroxide solution into your ear.
Step 5
Keep your head tilted for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the peroxide to soften the impacted ear wax.
Step 6
Place a cotton ball in the affected ear, sit up and allow the peroxide to drain.
Step 7
Irrigate the ear with room temperature water by using a bulb syringe.
Step 8
Allow the water to drain out into a dry towel.
Step 9
Repeat these steps several times a day for up to a week.
Things You'll Need
- Dropper or bulb syringe
- Cotton balls
- 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution
- Towel
