Ear wax is a natural protection against dust, dirt, microorganism, and other objects from getting inside the ear. However, earwax buildup can happen when the ear gland is producing too much of it. It will become hard and may block the ear canal. Also, it serves as a protective layer to prevent irritation caused by water. Usually, earwax finds its way out of the ear and washes it away. It is important to avoid pushing it inside while you are cleaning the ear.
Causes
Although some can produce more wax than others, the earwax build up will not cause blockage right away. Hence, cleaning ears at home using a cotton swab is one way to block the ear canal. Also, frequent use of earphones can cause buildup. Using it all day can stop the wax from coming out naturally inside your ears.
Signs
The color and overall appearance of earwax vary. Some may have black earwax, yellow or dark brown. Darker color ones do not mean that there is already a blockage. The following are common signs that there is a buildup inside your ear.
- Temporary hearing loss
- A ringing or buzzing sound
- A full feeling inside the ear
- Ear pain
If dark ear wax buildup stays inside the ear for a very long time, then it can cause an ear infection. Therefore, one should visit an ear specialist once you experience signs of infection like:
- Deliberating pain inside the ear
- Continues pain
- Fever
- Cough
- Frequent hearing loss
- Bad odor from the ear
- Dizziness
Build up in Children
Children, just like adults, may suffer from this ear problem. Although it is tempting to remove it, it may cause a damaging effect on your child’s eardrum. However, if your child has it or wax blocking the ear canal, see his or her pediatrician right away. Another sign is when the child is inserting objects inside their ear because of itchiness.
Build up in Adults
Moreover, it is a problem that can stop older adults from doing their usual daily activities. However, some may just let it go until the wax begins obstructing their ears. As a result, some temporary experience loss of hearing because of blockage. People with hard and dark ear wax most of the time experience difficulty in hearing.
1. Dos and Don’ts
Here are some recommendations on how one can take good care of their ears.
- It is good not to overclean the ears as it can lead to irritation and infection.
- Avoid cleaning the ear using a cotton swab, hairpin, and other objects that can damage the canal and eardrum.
- The doctor does not recommend ear candling as a safe way to clean the ear as it can cause further damages.
- Furthermore, it is important to quickly ask for professional help in ear pain, fullness, or loss of hearing.
- Always ask for a doctor’s advice for the safest way to remove black ear wax.
Safe Ways to Remove Earwax
Moreover, one should never dig out earwax alone. The use of a cotton swab is only advisable on the outer part of the ear.
2. Softening
One of the most effective ways is first to soften the earwax. Hence, the use of drops is useful for this purpose. Additionally, one can use one of these:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baby oil
- Mineral oil
- Glycerine
- Carbamide peroxide
3. Irrigation
Another effective way to clear the ear from blockage is through irrigation. However, people with ear injury in the eardrum cannot use this procedure. It is not safe as it can cause a ruptured eardrum. It is good to ask our doctor first and never use products intended for mouth and teeth. Fortunately, there are kits that you can buy and use at home. The following are the easy step that you can follow:
- One needs to stand straight.
- You need to hold outside the ear and pull it slightly upward.
- Using a syringe, push warm water inside the ear. Hence, remember not to use too hot or cold water.
- Lastly, allow the go outside by tipping the head.
4. Doctor’s Help
In case you cannot clear the buildup on your own, then you need some professional help. It is important to let the doctor see the condition of your ear. They know what kind of treatment is better, depending on your ear’s condition. After a procedure, that doctor will give an after care instructions that you need to follow.
