Removing Ear Wax: How to Remove Ear Wax

Removing ear wax seems to be very easy, as what you need to do is to insert an object like cotton swap and pull out the wax. However, inserting a cotton bud or hair grip deep into the ear canal can push the wax further into the ear canal, making it more difficult to remove. Besides, it can puncture the ear drums, and so, such practices should be strictly avoided. This highlights the importance of removing ear wax safely without causing any damage to the ear. Before concentrating on how to remove ear wax, it is important to throw some light on what exactly is ear wax and why it is produced.

Importance of Ear Wax

We often find ear wax disgusting and dirty, but it helps protect our ear. The ceruminous glands of the ear produce a watery substance. When this substance comes in contact with dead skin and other substances, it becomes ear wax. Ear wax is a lubricating agent that protects the ear from dust particles, bacteria and other microorganisms by trapping them and preventing them from entering the interior parts of the ear. This lubricating agent sometimes comes out of its own, and in the process, cleanses the ear canal by carrying with it dust, dirt and other small particles. Therefore, many experts and physicians suggest that there is no need to remove ear wax unless, it causes problems to an individual.

In some individuals, an excessive amount of ear wax is produced, which over a period of time, hardens and obstructs the ear canal. This can cause ear problems like temporary loss of hearing and itching. Such a situation may require the removal of ear wax, for which, it is important to use only the safe methods of removing ear was. Here are few simple, yet safe procedures for ear wax removal.

Removing Ear Wax

For safe and efficient removal of ear wax, it is essential to soften it. To serve this purpose, we can use olive oil, mineral oil or glycerin. Now, for removing ear wax, warm the oil slightly, pour a few drops into the ear canal and let it remain there for few seconds. The warm oil will help soften the wax and melt it. Then, lean your head to one side and allow the oil to come out naturally. After this, squirt some water into the ear to flush out the remaining wax.

You can use eardrops in place of oil, as it is also effective in softening and melting hard and solid ear wax. It can be applied in the same way, i.e. by putting a few drops into the ear canal and then allowing it to come out after few seconds by leaning your head to one side. Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide drops are also used by many to remove ear wax, which however, should not be applied if you have ear infections or perforated ear drums.

Another simple way to remove ear wax is to tilt your head down and pour a small amount of warm water into one ear. Then, lean your head down to the other side and allow the water to come out naturally. Repeat the same procedure for the other ear for removing excess ear wax. Some individuals also use ear wax removal tools like rubber bulb syringe, which is used to squirt a small amount of warm water into the ear canal with your head tilted down. However, do not inject too hot or too cold water into the ear.

As ear wax melts if it is warmed, application of heat can effectively soften and melt it. So, resting your head on the top of a hot water bottle or a heating pad can liquefy hard ear wax, which would come out of your ear, if you tilt your head down.

These are some of the simplest ways to remove ear wax and keep your ear clean. However, if you are not able to clean ear wax by following the simple methods, and excessive accumulation of ear wax is causing difficulty in hearing, it is better to take the help of an expert medical practitioner.