How do you remove ear wax blockage?
Quick Answer
An earwax blockage or impaction occurs when you push the substance further into your ear rather than removing it. Cotton swabs, earplugs, hearing aids and small ear canals cause most earwax blockages. A liquid flushing system offers the safest way to remove built-up earwax.
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Full Answer
- Determine if you have a blockage
Check for symptoms of an earwax impaction such as decreased hearing, dizziness, ear pain, plugged sensation, ringing in the ear and itchy drainage. Go to the hospital if you have severe dizziness, a spinning sensation, persistent vomiting, high fever or sudden hearing loss.
- Treat the blockage at home
Use several treatment options for an earwax blockage at home, including over-the-counter softeners, baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin and body-temperature water. Commercially available earwax removal systems provide carbamide peroxide.
- Put drops in your ear
Put the recommended drops in the affected ear and keep them in the ear canal for at least five minutes. You may hear a bubbling or crackling sound as the substance works to loosen the impaction.
- Keep your head tilted
You must keep your head tilted to the side, with the affected ear upwards, so the drops stay in the ear. Tilt your ear downwards so the liquid, and any earwax, drains properly.
- Flush out the liquid with water
Use a bulb-type syringe to gently rinse the ear with warm water after applying the treatment. Repeat according to the instructions on the product.
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