You all know how annoying it is to have wax in the ear. ENT experts have revealed an easy way to get rid of this wax.
Earwax is a natural substance that forms inside the ear. It can be light yellow or brown in color and is like a sticky wax. This wax is produced by small glands in our outer ear. Do not mistake earwax for dirt. It is essential for the protection and internal cleanliness of the ear. But sometimes you may experience irritation, itching, or hearing loss in the ear, which means that the ear is full of wax.
Why is earwax important
Earwax has many benefits, including protecting the ear. It prevents dust, dirt, small insects, and bacteria from entering the ear. It maintains moisture in the ear. It often slowly expels itself, removing dust and dirt from the ear.
Dangers of excessive earwax
It is produced by glands and is usually cleared from the ear on its own. Earwax blockage can cause temporary hearing loss, ear pain and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Earwax can become dangerous when it accumulates in large quantities or becomes too hard. Its disadvantages include ear blockage, excessive earwax can block the ear canal and this can lead to hearing loss.
It can also cause pain and pressure. Dr. Mohammad Nasiruddin, Senior ENT and Head and Neck Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Kondapur, has given tips on how to remove earwax.
How is ear cleaning done?
Earwax cleaning can be done in several ways. The first method is the endoscopic clearance technique. In this technique, an endoscopic camera is inserted into the ear. This camera shows the entire cavity inside the ear on the screen and then a small instrument is inserted to remove the earwax or fluid.
Earwax softening drops
If the earwax is very hard, earwax softening drops are given. If the earwax is hard, these drops need to be used for a few days. If the earwax is soft, the patient is called in every 3 to 5 days for further cleaning.
Ear irrigation or ear syringeing
One method of cleaning earwax is ear irrigation or ear syringeing. This is the most common and safest technique. In this method, normal saline or water-salt solution is warmed to body temperature and slowly injected into the ear.
This allows for easy removal of dirt and wax. It does not damage or injure the eardrum. ENT doctors have been using this technique for a long time.
Don't do these things to remove earwax
Doctors have advised against using earbuds or Q-tips to clean your ears. If you experience ear problems, hearing problems, or any unexplained discomfort, you should immediately consult an ENT specialist.
Dangers of earwax
A small amount of earwax is necessary, but if it is excessive and hard, it can cause many problems. It can clog your ears and block the ear canal. This can lead to hearing loss. Some people may hear a buzzing or ringing sound in the ears. Sometimes, excessive earwax can affect your balance, causing symptoms such as dizziness. If earwax accumulates too much, it increases the risk of ear infections.