Fact Checked
Ear wax is a naturally produced substance that functions in protecting the ears from bacteria and other elements and also as a lubricant for the ear and the ear canal. Excessive accumulation of earwax causes irritation, discomfort, dizziness, itching, full sensation and partial loss of hearing.
Causes of ear wax
- Earwax causes irritation when there is impaction or blockage due to buildup deep inside the ear canal. The wax is pushed deeper inside the ear when inserting cotton buds that can lead to blockage and discomfort.
- Using pointed objects such as bobby pins inside the ear in removing superficial wax which only pushes the wax further inside the ear.
- Those who are using ear plugs or hearing aids are more susceptible to blockage of earwax.
Symptoms
- Itchiness of the ear canal
Earwax causes irritation when there is impaction or blockage due to buildup deep inside the ear canal. - Ringing in the ear
- Discharge coming from the ear canal
- Partial loss of hearing and/or earache
- Fullness or plugged sensation
- Dizziness
Treatment
- Prepare a saline solution by mixing 1 teaspoon of salt to ½ cup of warm water. Mix well until salt is dissolved completely. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and squeeze a few drops into the affected ear by slightly tilting the head upwards. Make sure the solution gets inside the ear and then tilt the head in the opposite direction to drain out the solution from the ear.
- Mix equal amounts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Make sure hydrogen peroxide is not more than 3% otherwise it can be harmful. Pour a few drops into the affected ear by tilting the head sideways and let it settle inside a few minutes. Tilt the head in the opposite side in order to drain out the extra solution inside the ear.
- Place a few drops of baby oil or mineral oil using a dropper and let it settle for a few minutes. Place a cotton ball at the opening of the ear in order to prevent oil from coming out before reaching the ear wax. Take out the cotton ball in order to help drain out the extra oil from the ear. Oil helps in softening the impacted earwax and for easy removal of the wax.
- Mix equal parts of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol in a bowl or mug, then pour a few drops on the affected ear. This solution helps in eliminating earwax inside the ear.
- Pour a few drops of warm water in the affected ear and let it settle for a few minutes and then drain out the earwax.
Tips
- Frequently run water into the ear while taking a bath in order to help prevent the earwax from becoming dry and minimize blockage of the ear canal. Make sure to drain out the water from the ear.
- Avoid using pointed objects inside the ear in order to prevent infection.
- Avoid using acidic liquid to soften the earwax.
- Avoid consumption of dairy products.
- Avoid inserting cotton buds or cotton swabs into the ear canal. You can only use them when removing exposed wax at the opening of the ear.
FACT CHECK
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322247.php
https://www.healthline.com/health/ear-wax-removal-hydrogen-peroxide
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/earwax-blockage/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353007