Ear wax is a protective barrier that everyone has in their ears. The wax, called cerumen, protects your ears from dirt and dust that could enter and damage the ear canal, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Ear wax does not create a problem until too much of it is produced by the body and becomes impacted in the ear canal. Impacted ear wax becomes hardened and can interfere with normal hearing. Contrary to what you may have been taught, ear wax should not be removed with a cotton swab, but through a softening and irrigation process.
Step 1
Place two to three drops of baby or mineral oil into each ear twice each day with a sterile eye dropper. You can also use hydrogen peroxide--the same kind used to treat cuts and scrapes. Treat your ears for up to five days to facilitate removal. The Mayo Clinic explains that the oil softens the wax and makes it easier to remove.
Step 2
Irrigate your ear with warm water one to two days after you have begun the softening process. Use a bulb syringe--the kind used to clear a baby's nose is fine-- to insert the water into your ear. Hold the outer part of your ear up and toward the back of your head for easier access. Tip your head to the side to drain the water. If the wax is soft enough, it should fall out.
Step 3
Dry your ear after removing the wax. Towel dry first, and then use a hair dryer on the low setting.
Step 4
Consult your doctor if your ear wax is not coming out on its own, if your hearing is compromised or if you experience ear pain. You may require professional removal by your doctor using an instrument called a curette, or perhaps a stronger, prescription strength softening agent.
Things You'll Need
- Eye dropper
- Baby or mineral oil
- Bulb syringe
- Towel
- Hair dryer
