Earwax is a natural substance that helps to protect your ears from dirt and debris. However, sometimes earwax can build up and cause problems, such as hearing loss or ear infections.
Here are some tips on how to clean your ears safely:
- Use a warm washcloth to clean the outside of your ears.
- Do not use cotton swabs or other objects to clean the inside of your ears. This can push earwax deeper into the ear canal and cause impaction.
- Twirl the tip of a towel and clean the outer part of the ear canal. Do not use cotton swab.
- If you have a buildup of earwax, see your ENT specialist. We can remove the earwax safely without damaging the ear canal or ear drum.
- Click here to read in detail about tips to relieve itchy ears.
Here are some things to avoid when cleaning your ears:
- Do not use ear candles. These can cause burns and other injuries.
- Do not use hydrogen peroxide or other chemicals to clean your ears. These can irritate the ear canal.
- Do not use a water pick/ jet to clean your ears. This can damage the eardrum.
Here are some signs that you may have a buildup of earwax:
- Hearing loss
- Ear pain
- Ringing in the ears
- Fullness in the ears
- Itching in the ears
If you have any of these symptoms, see your ENT specialist.
Additional tips:
- If you wear hearing aids, clean them regularly.
- Avoid using cotton swabs to clean your ears.
- See your doctor if you have any concerns about your ears.
- Remember, earwax is a natural substance that helps to protect your ears. In most cases, you do not need to clean the canal of your ears.
We hope this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below.
