What is Earwax Removal: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Definition & Overview

Earwax, also called cerumen in medical terms, is more than just dirt in the ears. In fact, it is part of the body’s defense mechanism. The ears produce earwax to prevent foreign substances from entering the ear and damaging or infecting the eardrum. Earwax also has antibacterial properties that protect the ear from bacteria and fungi.

Old earwax hardens and is normally pushed out of the ear canal through jaw movements and skin changes that take place inside the ear. However, in some cases, the body fails to release hardened earwax or the patient accidentally push it further inside the canal while cleaning the ears, resulting in a blockage of the canal.

Many people consider earwax as unhygienic, which is why they clean the ears on a regular basis using cotton buds or other materials. Doing so is ill-advised because the inner ears have a cleaning mechanism. Disturbing this mechanism not only results in a blocked ear canal, but the object may inadvertently damage the eardrums causing serious hearing problems.

If, for any reason, earwax hardens and blocks the ear canal, you should visit a doctor to undergo an earwax removal procedure instead of trying to clear the canal on your own and risk damaging the eardrums.

Who should undergo and expected results

Hardened earwax that has caused a blockage resulting in reduced hearing abilities can be safely removed by an ENT specialist, also called an otolaryngologist. However, some general practitioners have received training in such procedure and can also help.

An earwax removal can be performed in two ways: through medications that melt the earwax or through an ear irrigation procedure that uses water, saline, or eardrops. DIY kits are also available, which enable you to do the procedure yourself in the comfort of your own home.

Removing earwax should only be done using the above-mentioned procedures. Other well-known procedures, such as candling or inserting a cotton swab inside the ear are dangerous and can result in serious damage.

You should undergo an earwax removal procedure if you feel that your ears are plugged, experience hearing loss and ringing in the ears, or notice a foul discharge from your ears. It’s best to consult an ENT specialist rather than doing the procedure at home. The specialist will be able to diagnose your condition and inform you if you have more serious ear problems.

How the procedure works

Hardened earwax can be softened using eardrops, water, or hydrogen peroxide. A syringe can also be used to deliver the liquid inside the ear. However, it’s important to note that this procedure should only be performed if there is no perforation in the eardrum.

If there is a hole in the eardrum, eardrops and other chemicals can cause an infection. If this happens, the condition will not only be painful, but can also result in permanent hearing disabilities.

Possible risks and complications

Ear syringing or earwax removal procedures recommended or performed by an ENT specialist are generally safe. Other procedures, such as ear candling or inserting pointed objects inside the ear canal should be avoided as these can cause serious damage.

If you have never undergone an earwax removal procedure, you should consult a specialist when having it performed for the first time to ensure there are no existing problems with your ears that can result in complications, such as an infection.

If your ears are healthy and the only problem is the buildup of earwax, you can opt for DIY kits for future ear cleaning. It also wouldn’t hurt if you consult your doctor every six months or so to make sure that your ears are in perfect condition.

References:

• American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery

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## What is​ Earwax ‍Removal: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results



**Q: What is earwax removal?**

**A:** ⁣Earwax removal ⁢is a medical procedure performed by specialized healthcare professionals‍ to clear excessive or impacted earwax (cerumen) from the ear canal. It helps‌ prevent several conditions resulting‌ from blocked earwax, such as hearing loss‌ and ear ⁣infections.



**Q: What are the different ⁤earwax removal methods?**

**A:** Earwax removal techniques include:

*⁤ Irrigation (ear syringing): Using water or saline to flush the earwax ⁣out.

* Ear drops: Dissolving the earwax with ⁣over-the-counter‌ or prescription ear drops for easy removal.

* Manual removal: Using specialized tools to gently extract visible earwax.

* Microsuction: Utilizing a vacuum-like device ⁣to suction the earwax out.



**Q: What are the benefits⁣ of professional ​earwax‌ removal?**

**A:** ⁢Professional earwax ⁢removal​ offers several benefits, including:

* Improved hearing: Removing excess wax restores clear auditory‍ pathways for better sound reception.

* Reduced​ risk of‍ infections: Excessive earwax can⁤ block the ear canal, creating ​a⁢ warm, moist environment that fosters bacterial growth.

*‍ Alleviated⁣ pain and discomfort:⁤ Impacted earwax can cause pain and a feeling of ear fullness. Removal can ⁢provide immediate ‌relief.

* Prevention of future complications: Excess earwax left untreated can lead​ to permanent‍ hearing loss or eardrum damage.



**Q: ⁤What are the potential side effects or risks of earwax removal?**

**A:** Earwax removal is‌ generally considered a safe procedure,‌ but there are some potential side effects:

* Ear irritation: In rare​ cases, instillation of water or ‍ear drops may cause temporary irritation.

* Punctured eardrum: Improper instrument usage or ‌excessive force during​ manual removal‌ can potentially puncture the eardrum.



**Q: How often‌ should I get my ears cleaned by a professional?**

**A:** The ‍frequency of professional earwax removal depends‍ on individual factors such as earwax production rate and hygiene habits.‌ Typically, it’s recommended to‍ have your ‍ears checked and cleaned by a⁤ healthcare⁤ professional if you have persistent symptoms of‍ earwax blockage.



**Q: What​ are the costs involved in earwax removal?**

**A:** The cost of earwax removal varies depending on the⁣ procedure ⁣used and the healthcare provider. It’s‍ advisable to contact your healthcare provider or insurance company to determine the potential​ fees associated ⁣with earwax removal.



**Q: How do I maintain clean ears after professional removal?**

**A:**‌ After professional earwax ⁣removal, you can follow these tips⁢ for ear care:

* Avoid inserting foreign objects into your ears, such as cotton swabs or bobby‍ pins.

* Clean ⁣the⁣ outer ear ⁤with a soft, damp ⁢cloth.

* Keep water out of ‍your ears while bathing or swimming.

* Use⁢ over-the-counter earwax softeners​ as recommended by⁣ your healthcare ‍provider.