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Tips for Cleaning Your Ears Safely | 01st August, 2017

Do your ears feel blocked up? Excess wax can accumulate sometimes and make hearing difficult. At the same time, you have probably read that using cotton swabs is not a safe way to remove the wax. Here are some tips on how to safely clean your ears, what not to do, and when you should see your doctor.
 
Symptoms of impaction
Earwax, or cerumen, is a self-cleaning agent produced your body produces. It collects dirt, bacteria, and other debris. Usually, the wax works its way out of the ears naturally through chewing and other jaw motions.
 
Many people never need to clean their ears. Sometimes, though, wax can build up and affect your hearing. When earwax reaches this level, it is called impaction.
 
If you have impaction, you may experience symptoms like:
 
  • aching in the affected ear
  • fullness or ringing in the ear
  • impaired hearing in the affected ear
  • an odor coming from the affected ear
  • dizziness
  • a cough
  • You may be more likely to develop excess wax if your use hearing aids or ear plugs. Older adults and people with developmental disabilities are also at higher risk. Your ear canals shape may make the natural removal of wax difficult.
 
Best practices
The safest way to remove wax buildup from your ears is to visit your doctor. At your appointment, your doctor can use special instruments, like a cerumen spoon, forceps, or suction device, to clear the blockage. Many offices also offer professional irrigation.
 
If you choose to try to remove wax at home, the following are the safest methods to try on your own:
 
  • Damp cloth
  • Cotton swabs may push wax deeper into the ear canal. Use cotton swabs only on the outside of your ear or, better yet, try wiping the area with a warm, damp washcloth.
  •  
Earwax softener
Many pharmacies sell over-the-counter eardrops that soften wax. These drops are typically a solution. They may contain:
 
  • mineral oil
  • baby oil
  • glycerin
  • peroxide
  • hydrogen peroxide
  • saline
Place the specified number of drops into your ear, wait a certain amount of time, and then drain or rinse out your ear. Always follow the instructions on the package. Call your doctor if your symptoms continue after treatment.
 
Safe Ways To Remove Earwax
  • Ask your doctor to remove the wax in their office.
  • Clean the outside of your ear with a damp cloth.
  • If you choose to use cotton swabs, do not insert them into the ear canal.
  • You can use earwax softener to soften earwax for easier removal.
  • You can use a syringe to irrigate your ears.
Your Health Is Our Concern!
 
Mawuena Workartey/ Ghanahospitals.org

     
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