Ear cleaning is something that many people attempt to do at home. However, if you do not know what you are doing, then you can create problems in your ear that do not need to be there. For example, you can push wax down deeper into your ear canal to the point where it causes an impaction. Also, if you use a cue tip, you can harm your ear canal accidently, or even get parts of it stuck in your ears. Here are some great tips for cleaning your ears properly.
- AVOID COTTON SWABS
Earwax is designed to come out of the ears naturally. If you try to remove it with a cue tip, disaster can occur. The best practice is to simply let it come out of your ears properly. If you suspect that you have an earwax impaction, then you can go to the audiologist, who can remove it with special tools. - USE A DRY OR DAMP CLOTH
A dry or damp cloth is very gentle, unlike cotton swabs. Damp or dry cloths are safe to use on the outer parts of your ear, however you should still avoid inserting them into your ear canal. You can clean wax or other debris and dirt off the outer parts of your ears with the cloth after taking a shower or bath. - USE WAX SOFTENERS
There are a number of substances that can be used to soften earwax so that it can come out of your ears naturally. These substances include saline, baby oil, mineral oil, hydrogen peroxide and others. You can get a recommendation from your audiologist about which solution is best for you and your situation. - SYRINGE
Irrigating your ears gently with a syringe can also be very helpful. This is another safe way to help get earwax out of your ear and is practiced by audiologists. There are a number of options when it comes to earwax removal, with the syringe and solution method being one of the most gentle. Your audiologist will communicate which ear cleaning method they will use on you and will explain the process in detail.
Earwax impactions can cause pain, hearing loss, itching and headaches and even balance issues. If you’re struggling with excessive earwax, contact an audiologist in your area and have them evaluate your hearing health.