The Ultimate Guide to Eardrops for Earwax Management: What to Use and When
Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal to protect and clean your ears. It helps trap dust and other particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. However, for some people, earwax can build up and cause discomfort, hearing loss, or even infections. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter eardrops designed to soften and remove excess earwax safely.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best eardrops for earwax management, how to use them effectively, and when it’s time to seek professional help, such as microsuction.
How Eardrops Help with Earwax Removal
Eardrops are designed to soften and loosen hardened or impacted earwax, making it easier to clear out naturally. They are an ideal solution for people with mild earwax build-up who want to avoid more invasive procedures. Most eardrops contain one or more of the following active ingredients:
Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide: These ingredients release oxygen to help break down earwax and soften it.
Olive oil or almond oil: These natural oils help lubricate and soften earwax, allowing it to slide out more easily.
Sodium bicarbonate: A mild alkaline solution that helps to dissolve and soften earwax.
How to Use Eardrops Safely
Using eardrops is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to ensure maximum effectiveness:
1. Lie down on your side with the affected ear facing up.
2. Warm the eardrops slightly by holding the bottle in your hands for a few minutes to avoid discomfort from cold drops.
3. Gently pull the ear lobe to open the ear canal and apply the recommended number of drops.
4. Remain lying down for 5-10 minutes to let the drops work their way into the wax.
5. Wipe away any excess drops that might leak out of the ear.
6. Repeat as directed until the earwax softens and is naturally expelled or can be removed professionally.
When to seek Professional Help
While eardrops are effective for mild to moderate earwax build-up, they may not be enough for severe cases, where the earwax has become impacted or hardened. If you've tried eardrops but are still experiencing discomfort, hearing issues, or blocked ears, it may be time to consider microsuction.
Microsuction is a quick and safe procedure performed by a healthcare professional to remove earwax using a small vacuum. It’s often recommended for people with impacted earwax or those who cannot use traditional earwax removal methods due to ear infections, a perforated eardrum, or ear surgery.
Remember, there are several people offering earwax removal, including beauticians and pharmacists. Always make sure your ear care provider is trained, insured and experienced in the procedure, otherwise, you risk permanent damage to your ears and hearing.
Book a Microsuction Appointment Today
If eardrops aren’t providing relief or you’re dealing with recurrent earwax issues, it’s important to consult a professional. Microsuction is widely regarded as one of the most effective and safest methods for earwax removal. Why wait until the problem worsens? At PinnaClear we have been offering microsuction and other audiology services for several years.
References:
1. National Health Service (NHS). (2021). Earwax build-up. Retrieved from [https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/earwax-build-up](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/earwax-build-up)
2. Action on Hearing Loss. (2020). Managing earwax. Retrieved from [https://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk](https://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk)
Comments