Why does ear wax develop? What are the symptoms and treatment options?
Have you ever felt like your ears are blocked? Excess wax can make it hard to hear. Using cotton swabs is not a safe or effective way to clean your ears; find out safe alternatives here.SelMagzWe cover methods to clean your ears safely and what to do if you can’t visit a healthcare professional.
Symptoms of ear wax blockage:
Ear debris that leads to bacterial growth is naturally produced by your body and usually affects both ears. Many people don’t clean their ears regularly, which can decrease hearing and cause feeling of fullness or blockage.
If you notice these problems, look for these signs:
If your ears are muffled or you hear ringing, there might be a buildup of earwax or debris in your ear.
Senior people and diabetics are at greater risk, which can make removing earwax more difficult.EardrumThis can hinder the removal process of earwax.
What is ear wax and how do you get rid of it?
Effective ways to treat ear wax buildup:
The safest way is to visit a doctor who can use special equipment such as ear irrigation or suction to remove the wax properly.
If you prefer to try at home, use the following method:
Use a cotton ball instead of a cotton swab, to avoid pushing wax deeper or harming your ear. Alternatively, gently clean with a warm cloth.
Ear wax and softening treatments:
Ear drops found in pharmacies help soften the wax. Common ingredients are mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, and saline solution.
Apply a few drops into your ear, then dry the ear. Follow the instructions on the product package and consult a doctor if symptoms continue.
Ear cleaning using solutions:
Gently pour warm water or saline into your ear after softening the wax for 15-30 minutes to loosen it, then flush with gentle pressure.Ear waxUse warm water to rinse your ear to match body temperature. You can also ask a healthcare professional to do this for you. Dry the outer ear with a clean cloth and avoid inserting cotton swabs deep into the ear canal. Use ear drops to soften wax instead.
Home methods for cleaning ear wax
Home ear wax cleaning tips
Do’s and don’ts for safe ear cleaning:
Many people neglect ear hygiene. Using objects like cotton swabs can push wax deeper into the ear, leading to blockage.
Most doctors advise not to insert small or sharp objects into your ear, as they can cause injury or damage the eardrum.
Do not attempt to clean your ear with your fingers, particularly if you:have diabetes, since a weakened immune system increases the risk of ear injury or perforation. Some people also try burning earwax with candles, but this can damage your ear.Ear candles can cause burns, perforate the eardrum, cause bleeding, or harm your hearing. It’s unsafe to insert anything into your ear directly, including candles.
Risks of untreated ear wax buildup:
If left untreated, ear wax buildup can lead to worsening hearing loss, ear discomfort, and complicate diagnosis of other ear-related issues.
Forear blockageSigns you should visit a healthcare provider:
– Feeling of fullness in the ear
– Hearing loss
– May cause other health problems such as infections.
SignsEar infectionIn adults, signs include:
– Ear pain and trouble hearing
– Ear infection symptoms can quickly develop if left untreated; see a doctor promptly.If you experience sudden ear pain, hearing loss, or injury, visit a doctor promptly.Seek medical attention regularly if you have frequent ear issues or other symptoms. Professional ear cleaning every 6-12 months can help maintain ear health.
The importance of treating ear wax buildup
Tips to protect your ears when cleaning
Follow these safety tips:
– Avoid inserting small objects into your ear to prevent damage to the eardrum.
– Stay away from loud sounds to prevent hearing damage.
– Wear ear protection in noisy environments.
– Lower the volume when around loud noises or when using headphones to protect your hearing.
After swimming, carefully dry your ears with a soft cloth or gently shake your head to remove excess water.
Monitor any hearing changes after your treatment or cleaning procedures.
If you notice new symptoms such as ringing or hearing changes, consult your healthcare provider.
Seek urgent medical care if you lose hearing suddenly, feel pain, or suffer a trauma to the ear.
Doctors may use special tools like suction devices or ear curettes to carefully remove earwax.
As emphasized before, avoid home ear cleaning if you have a perforated eardrum, diabetes, skin conditions, or a weakened immune system. Always seek professional help.
The dangers of using cotton swabs are:
They can push wax further inside, toward the eardrum, and delay proper removal.
Injury to the eardrum and possible blockage of the ear canal.
Ear candles can cause burns, perforate the eardrum, and result in bleeding or hearing issues. Avoid inserting anything into your ear directly.
Risks of improper ear cleaning techniques:
Using candles can burn the skin, create perforations, and lead to bleeding or hearing loss. It’s unsafe to insert any objects into your ear by yourself.
Over-cleaning can eliminate beneficial bacteria, reduce hearing, and cause itching or discomfort.
Persistent cleaning can cause ear fullness, pain, or infections. If home methods fail, consult a healthcare professional.If you notice symptoms like ear pain, fluid discharge, or hearing loss, see a doctor promptly to prevent further issues.See a healthcare provider regularly if you have frequent symptoms, or for preventive cleaning every 6-12 months.
The importance of managing ear wax accumulationProtective tips for ear cleaningSteps to keep your ears safe:
– Avoid putting small items into your ears to prevent injury.
