Earwax is a substance found in the inner ear that protects it from harmful bacteria.
It also acts as a natural lubricant for the ear and ear canal. But there comes a point when it builds up in large quantities!
This can cause discomfort, as well as irritation, dizziness, hearing loss, a feeling that something is stuck in the ear, and itching.
This is why you should periodically clean your ears to remove excess earwax.
What causes a lot of earwax?
This problem usually occurs when you regularly use earplugs to clean your ears, causing earwax to penetrate deeper into the ear canal and build up.
People who regularly use such sticks are also at greater risk of excessive earwax buildup.
What are the symptoms of too much earwax?
itching in the ear canal;
the feeling that your ears are full or clogged;
dizziness;
ringing in the ears;
hearing impairment;
earache.
It is believed that a person’s ears are a self-cleaning organ.
During chewing, sneezing, and coughing, earwax itself removes whatever has gotten inside.
But sometimes it happens that the earwax that has collected inside slightly clogs the ear.
In such cases, it is necessary to carry out an ear washing procedure.
The simplest and most affordable way to clean ears and remove buildup is a hydrogen peroxide solution.
This method can and should be applied immediately after an unpleasant sensation in the ear.
How to clean the ear from dirt and debris?
1. For the procedure you are going to do, mix in a 1:1 ratio distilled water and 3% hydrogen peroxide.
2. Using a pipette, take a small amount of solution.
If you don’t have a pipette handy, you can moisten a cotton swab in the liquid.
3. Tilt your head so that your ear is parallel to your shoulder and drop only 3 drops.
Keep the head tilted for about 5 minutes.
Seconds later, you will feel a characteristic hiss. This is an indication that earwax reacts with oxygenated water.
4. Bend your head to the opposite side so that excess fluid can be squeezed out, then wipe the ear well with a soft cotton cloth, which should not be too thick.
It is not recommended to use cotton ear sticks during the procedure.
5. Repeat this procedure with the other ear.
Usually, hydrogen peroxide copes well with earwax.
If the first attempt to dissolve the accumulated earwax fails, try again after three days, and if this does not help, seek help from a specialist.
We also recommend a few more tried and tested methods:
1. Saline
Saline is an excellent option for removing earwax. All you need to do:
Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup of water (100 ml).
Simply soak a cotton swab in the solution and let a few drops fall into your ear as you tilt your head to the side.
Hold this position for several minutes to allow the fluid to enter the ear canal and reach the earwax.
Then tilt your head in the opposite direction and use the cloth to wipe off the liquid as it appears.
2. Paraffin oil
One of the safest and most effective remedies for removing earwax is paraffin oil, which is sold in most pharmacies.
All you need to do:
Heat two or three tablespoons of this oil on the candle flame.
Put a few drops in the ear and wait a few minutes.
Then use warm water to wash away any traces of wax.
Do this for three consecutive days to completely dissolve the accumulation of earwax.
3. Glycerin
Glycerin is a natural product that helps soften earwax and easily remove it.
You can find it in pharmacies and use 4 drops in each ear 3 times a day to achieve the best results.
4. Vinegar and alcohol solution
Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and alcohol in a small bowl.
Dip a cotton swab in the mixture and put a few drops in each ear.
5. Olive oil
Olive oil is another important ingredient that helps soften earwax and makes it easier to remove.
Place 2-3 drops of olive oil in the affected ear before bed and try to sleep on the other side.
Repeat this treatment for three or four nights in a row.
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