Cerumen, also known as earwax, is naturally produced by the glands in the ears to lubricate the ear canals and keep dust and debris from getting too far down in the ear canal.
Cerumen typically clears itself from the ears, but in some instances can accumulate and cause a blockage.
Symptoms of a cerumen blockage include:
- Earache
- Tinnitus (ringing or sounds in the ear)
- Hearing loss
- Ear pressure
If a blockage occurs, it may need to be removed. This can be done at your physician’s office or, in many cases, by our audiologist depending on the size and severity of the blockage.
How Not to Remove Earwax Buildup
People commonly use cotton swabs to try and remove earwax or dislodge a blockage. However, this can sometimes cause more problems as cotton swabs may push the blockage further down into the ear canal, risking even more damage to the ear.
Cotton swabs themselves can also be accidentally inserted too far into the ear canal and can potentially damage your ear, including the possibility of rupturing your eardrum.
Physicians and audiologists generally agree that cotton swabs are a bad idea for removing earwax and should only be used on the outer portions of your ear. You should never insert cotton swabs or any small object into your ear canal. The old adage “nothing smaller than your elbow” certainly applies here!
At-Home Earwax Removal
In some instances, your physician may send you home with an at-home earwax removal kit. Earwax removal kits can also be purchased over-the-counter in most drug stores.
These kits generally consist of a liquid that softens earwax and a small rubber bulb syringe. You will be given directions on how much and how often to apply the liquid to your ear canals, allowing it to sit for awhile in your ears to soften up the ear wax. Bubbling and fizzing sensations in your ears is normal with use. You will then use the bulb syringe to gently flush your ears with warm water to remove the ear wax. It may take several days to completely clear earwax blockages. There are contraindications to using these kits in some people and with some ear conditions. Before attempting at-home earwax removal, it is advised to speak with your physician to be sure it is safe for you.
Removal at Advanced Audiology
If the earwax blockage is more significant, at-home remedies might not be enough to address the problem. Luckily, we offer water irrigation services at Advanced Audiology Associates, which can save patients a trip to their physician’s office. Water irrigation is a gentle and effective method for earwax removal. Using warm water, we can clear blockages and maintain ear hygiene safely. This non-invasive procedure promotes better hearing and overall wellbeing, ensuring your ears are in expert hands.
Unlike at-home ear wax removal kids, your provider may use stronger ear wax removal medications in conjunction with irrigation. Carbamide peroxide is typically the main ingredient in these medications.
Removal at Your Physician’s Office
Another method typically used to remove more significant blockages is curettage, which involves the use of a curette. A curette is a long, curved tool that is used along with suction to gently scrape cerumen from the ear canal, removing the blockage. This is a procedure that requires a trip to your doctor’s office.
If you experience pain or discomfort as a result of earwax or suspect you have a blockage, contact a hearing professional as soon as possible to address the issue. Removing earwax doesn’t have to be painful and should bring you relief.