Reminder
It’s best to seek assistance from a qualified audiologist or healthcare professional for the safe and effective removal of impacted earwax, potentially addressing the underlying cause of your tinnitus.
At home remedies
You can manage earwax buildup at home if you don’t experience any of the following symptoms:
Pain and/or discharge from your ears
Perforated eardrum
Current ear infection
Sudden hearing loss
If you’re free from these symptoms, you can attempt at-home methods to address the earwax accumulation. However, if you do experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult your GP for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
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Many individuals opt for ear wax softening drops as their initial remedy. These drops can help soften the wax, facilitating its natural expulsion from the ear canal. However, it’s essential to note that some drops may be harsh, particularly for those with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Alternatively, olive oil serves as a gentle and effective option. Standard olive oil used for cooking works well and does not require heating before application. To use olive oil, simply tilt your head to one side, apply a few drops into the ear canal using a dropper, and allow the oil to settle for a couple of minutes. You can then use a tissue to absorb any excess oil from the outer ear.
For optimal results, administer two or three drops of olive oil into each ear twice daily for one to two weeks. Many find it convenient to apply the drops while lying in bed, ideally in the morning and evening.
Additionally, olive oil is available in spray form, offering certain advantages such as ease of application, prevention of the tip from being inserted too deeply into the ear, and better coverage of the ear wax compared to drops, which may pool at the bottom of the ear canal.
For those prone to recurrent ear wax buildup, using a couple of drops of olive oil once a week may help prevent excessive accumulation.
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If you opt for wax removal by a private provider, it’s crucial to ensure that the clinician is adequately trained, qualified, and adheres to professional guidelines.
However, it’s important to consult your GP initially if:
- You have a perforated eardrum.
- You’ve undergone ear surgery.
- Previous attempts at wax removal have been unsuccessful.
- Your hearing or tinnitus persistently affected even after wax removal.
In these cases, your doctor may refer you to a specialist Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) service for further assessment and advice. It’s essential to prioritize your safety and well-being by seeking appropriate medical attention from qualified professionals.
There are several methods for safely removing ear wax, each with its own considerations:
- Electronic Ear Irrigation: Warm water is gently sprayed into the ear using an electronic irrigator to dislodge the wax, which is then collected in a cup-shaped dish. This method is not suitable for individuals with a history of ear surgery, recent ear infections, perforated eardrums, dizziness issues, troublesome tinnitus, or extreme sensitivity to everyday sounds (hyperacusis).
- Microsuction: This procedure involves using a high-powered microscope to visualize the ear canal while gently suctioning out the wax with a small instrument. It’s generally safe for most people, including those with perforated eardrums. However, it may not be suitable for individuals experiencing severe dizziness, hyperacusis, or difficulty holding their head still during the procedure, which typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes per ear.
- Manual Removal: A clinician may manually remove ear wax using a headlight and handheld instrument. It’s important to avoid attempting manual removal yourself, as this can push the wax deeper into the ear canal or cause injury.
Before undergoing any ear wax removal procedure, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate method based on your medical history and individual needs.
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The clinician performing your ear wax removal is trained to utilize best practices to minimize the risk of harm. However, it’s important to acknowledge that no medical intervention is entirely risk-free.
While complications from ear wax removal are uncommon, they may include:
- Damage to the skin of the ear canal or eardrum.
- Infection of the ear canal or inner ear.
- Temporary reduction in hearing.
- Permanent reduction in hearing (very rare).
- Temporary dizziness.
- Possible feelings of sickness or fainting (rare).
- Triggering of tinnitus or temporary exacerbation of existing tinnitus.
- Temporary irritation to the throat.
Before proceeding with any ear wax removal procedure, it’s essential to discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision about your care.