Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear. While it naturally moves out of the ear, some people experience excessive buildup, which can lead to discomfort, hearing loss, or even infections. This is why removal might be the key to better hearing. This guide helps you explore both home and professional methods of ear care.
Best Way To Remove Earwax
The best way to remove earwax depends on the level of buildup and the symptoms. In many cases, no treatment is needed. However, when earwax becomes impacted, professional removal may be necessary.
Batley Pharmacy offers ear cleaning methods which include safe and precise procedures performed by trained clinicians. Microsuction is currently considered one of the most effective methods to clear blocked ears.
Safe Ear Cleaning Methods
Inserting objects into your ear, such as cotton buds, hairpins, or any sharp tools, can push the wax further into the ear canal. The ear canal is self-cleaning. As new wax is produced, old wax moves toward the ear opening and flakes away. However, if you experience excessive buildup, here are some effective earwax removal options:
Earwax Softening Drops
One of the gentlest ways to remove earwax is to use earwax removal drops. These ear drops help soften hardened wax, making it easier for it to move out naturally or be rinsed away.
Common Ingredients Include:
- Olive oil: A natural remedy that lubricates and softens the wax.
- Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide: These substances create a bubbling action that helps break down the wax.
- Sodium bicarbonate: This is effective for dissolving hardened wax over several days.
How To Use:
- Tilt your head sideways and place a few drops into the affected ear.
- Keep your head tilted for 5–10 minutes to allow the drops to reach the wax
- Use the drops once or twice daily for 3–5 days unless directed otherwise
Softening drops are usually suitable for most people, including children and the elderly, unless you have an active ear infection.
Warm Water Irrigation
After softening the wax for several days, gentle warm water irrigation can help flush it out. This method involves using a rubber bulb syringe to gently introduce warm water into the ear canal.
Steps To Follow:
- Fill a bulb syringe with clean, lukewarm water
- Tilt your head over a sink and gently squirt the water into the ear canal
- Let the water and loosened wax drain out
- Dry the outer ear thoroughly afterwards
Precautions:
- Do not use irrigation if you have a perforated eardrum, a history of ear surgery, or frequent ear infections.
- Always ensure the water is at body temperature to prevent dizziness.
Warm water irrigation is a non-invasive and affordable method, but should be done with care to avoid injury.
Microsuction
Microsuction earwax removal is one of the safest and most effective options for removing stubborn wax. It involves using a small suction device which gently extracts wax under the guidance of a microscope or magnifying loupe.
Why Choose Microsuction:
- Does not involve water, making it suitable for patients with ear infections
- Provides a clear view of the ear canal during the procedure, allowing precise wax removal
- Quick, usually completed in under 30 minutes
- Minimally invasive with a low risk of complications
Batley Pharmacy offers microsuction ear cleaning in a clinical setting conducted by our trained professionals. It is especially recommended for individuals who have had unsuccessful results with home methods or have recurring wax problems.
More Remedies for Blocked Ears
Blocked ears can be uncomfortable and may cause muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness, or even dizziness. The blockage is often caused by a build-up of hardened earwax, but it may also result from water trapped in the ear, sinus congestion, or inflammation.
Apply a Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to the outer ear can help reduce discomfort and loosen wax. Simply soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it against the affected ear for 10 to 15 minutes. This may also help relieve pressure.
Avoid Earphones or Hearing Aids Temporarily
Wearing earphones or hearing aids can compact wax further into the ear canal and worsen the blockage. During active symptoms, avoid inserting anything into your ear, including earbuds, until the blockage is resolved.
Stay Upright or Slightly Reclined
Remain upright or reclined at an angle, as this can help any loosened wax or fluid move toward the ear opening and drain more effectively.
Book a Professional Ear Cleaning Appointment
If home remedies do not resolve the issue within a few days or if symptoms worsen, it’s important to seek professional care. Persistent blockage could indicate impacted wax, infection, or another underlying condition.
At Batley Pharmacy, we offer microsuction earwax removal, a safe, effective procedure that provides immediate relief from wax-related blockages.
FAQs
Microsuction is widely considered the safest method due to its precision, low risk, and suitability for sensitive ears.
You can start with ear drops at home, but if there’s no improvement or if symptoms worsen, it’s best to consult a professional. Contact us and speak to our experts for more information.
Common signs include reduced hearing, fullness in the ear, earache, ringing (tinnitus), or dizziness.
Yes, especially for mild to moderate wax build-up. They help soften the wax, making it easier to exit the ear or be removed professionally.
No. Ear candling is not recommended by medical professionals. It can cause burns, blockages, and other complications without effectively removing wax.
Most people don’t need regular ear cleaning. However, if you produce excess wax or wear hearing aids, consider checking every 6 to 12 months.
Microsuction uses suction and a microscope for targeted wax removal. It is generally safer and more effective than syringing, which uses water and can sometimes irritate the ear.
Yes. Excess wax can block the ear canal, leading to temporary hearing loss, dizziness, or balance issues.
Factors include narrow or hairy ear canals, regular use of earbuds or hearing aids, over-cleaning, and certain skin conditions like eczema.
See a professional if you experience severe symptoms, repeated buildup, ear pain, or if home treatments don’t work. Batley Pharmacy offers safe and effective earwax removal methods. Book an appointment with us today.
