If you’ve noticed a change in your hearing, the problem could be as simple as a blockage caused by excessive ear wax build-up.
Although it’s a small thing that’s easily fixed, you should get treatment as soon as you can because ear wax blockages can lead to other problems if not dealt with, like:
- Ear pain or infections
- Dizziness (vertigo)
- Ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
- Itchiness within the ear
One thing you can do is use ear wax removal drops, which are a safe, at-home treatment for removing ear wax. Unlike cotton buds (which you should never use), ear drops break up wax rather than pushing it further down your ear.
This article covers everything you need to know about ear wax removal, including who can use ear drops and how long to use them.
What are ear wax removal drops?
Ear wax removal drops are a solution specifically designed to soften ear wax, breaking it down to the point it will fall out of your ears on its own.
There are various types of ear wax removal drops available from your local pharmacy, including:
Water-based earwax drops
– Sodium bicarbonate
– Hydrogen peroxide
Oil-based earwax drops
– Olive oil
– Almond oil
– Peanut oil
We recommend speaking to your local pharmacist about which drops are best for you.
Only use ear wax removal drops to clear excessive amounts of earwax – normal levels of ear wax are necessary to clear your ear canal of dirt and dead skin cells that cause infections.
Can everyone use ear wax removal drops?
People with the following conditions or symptoms shouldn’t use ear wax removal drops:
– An ear infection
– Discharge from the ear
– Past complications with ear wax removal drops
– Allergies to ear drop ingredients
– Previous ear operations
Contact your GP if you have any of the above, and they’ll recommend an alternative ear wax removal treatment.
How long do you need to use ear wax removal drops?
The timeframe required for administering ear drops depends on the type you’re using – so be sure to follow the instructions.
Typically, ear drops should have an effect between 3-5 days if the correct dosage is administered.
Again, the dosage is subject to the type of eardrops used. The average is 2-3 drops applied 3-4 times daily.
After around two weeks, clumps of wax should begin to fall from your ear, especially at night-time.
If you experience side effects, like discomfort, ear infections or irritation, stop using the ear wax removal drops immediately and make an appointment with a GP.
What if the ear wax removal drops aren’t working?
Hardened wax (impacted cerumen) or large wax blockages may prevent ear wax removal drops from working.
Other home remedies include using a bulb syringe that uses warm water to break the wax. However, those with holes in their eardrums caused by traumas such as loud noises and pushing cotton buds too far down the ear should avoid this method. This method may also introduce infection or compact the wax even more.
Or you can speak to a specialist about treatments such as microsuction ear wax removal.
This effective treatment involves removing wax via a very fine suction tube and can have immediate results. This method of ear wax removal is regarded as the safest and most effective treatment for excessive ear wax when carried out by a trained and experienced ear care specialist.
Contact our experienced, highly qualified Ear Care Specialists today
Earwax removal drops are an effective way to clear excessive wax build-up in your ears. Whether you use an oil or water-based formula, results can happen in as quickly as three days.
Microsuction ear wax removal is a perfect alternative to ear wax removal drops that may not work for you.
If you require further advice from audiology specialists with years of experience, feel free to contact Interhearing today on 08000 029 503, or fill out our online contact form.
