Managing Heavy Wax Build Up in Your Ears
Experiencing wax buildup in your ears can feel frustrating. Depending on its severity, you may struggle to hear, and you could experience discomfort. There are a few ways you can help yourself at home when this happens. It also helps to know when to visit an audiologist.
Don't Use Cotton Buds
Cotton buds are easy for you to access. You can buy them in a lot of stores, but that doesn't mean you should use them in the way you're tempted to. Although you can use cotton buds to clear wax from the external part of your ear, poking them into your ear to remove deeper wax may compact it. If you do compact it, you'll have a harder time getting it out. Similarly, don't use items such as hair grips or needles. There's a risk that you'll perforate your eardrum. Or, you may introduce bacteria that causes an infection.
Try Oil Drops
Medical grade olive oil and almond oil are both useful for tackling ear wax. Lie on your unaffected side and place two to three drops inside the affected ear. Stay lying there for about five minutes to give the oil a chance to work its way in. For simplicity's sake, you may find it easier to do this first thing in the morning or last thing at night. The oil should slowly soften the wax in your ear and cause it to fall out gradually.
Ask a Pharmacist
Some pharmacists stock over-the-counter medicines that contain sodium bicarbonate. The fizzing action of the sodium bicarbonate breaks down ear wax and causes it to fall out gradually. As with the oil, you should lie down on your unaffected side and drop the solution into your affected ear. Always follow the instructions on the packaging. You should avoid using these drops if you suspect that you have perforated your eardrum.
See an Audiologist
If your problem persists after a couple of weeks of self-help or you're experiencing symptoms such as tinnitus, make an appointment with an audiologist. They can use specialist equipment to assess how bad the problem is. They may also be able to suction the wax out and can identify potential causes for the buildup. In many cases, wax buildup is natural. However, there are a few conditions that require ongoing interventions to stop the problem from happening again. They can also offer lifestyle advice that may limit your chances of experiencing further buildup.
For more information, contact an audiologist near you.