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Fast Way to Remove Ear Wax

Earwax naturally occurs in human ears, protecting your ear canal and ear drum from penetration of water or foreign substances that can harm your ears. Earwax is also beneficial for maintaining the proper pH balance in your ears to inhibit bacterial growth. However, too much earwax can cause irritation, ear infections or even hearing loss. There are a few fast and safe ways to remove excess earwax, according to an article written by the Mayo Clinic staff in 2009.

  1. Home Remedies

    • Many home remedies can remove excess ear wax safely, according to the Mayo Clinic. One way is to use warm (not hot!) baby oil to soften the wax. Place a few drops of the oil in the ear canal while laying on your side. You may need to ask someone to help you so you can remain still. Let the oil sit in your ear for about 10-20 seconds and then tilt your head so that the oil and wax flow out onto a towel. Then, dry your ears thoroughly with another clean towel. After doing this, The second step is to put a few drops of rubbing alcohol into the ear canal. As with the oil, tilt your head after a few seconds to allow the alcohol to run out. This should dry your ear canal safely and effectively. Home remedies are best used for the occasional hard wax build up only, says the Mayo Clinic. If you've got a history of ear infections or disease, you should visit your doctor instead of attempting home remedies, according to Dr. Douglas Hoffman, an ear nose and throat specialist who practices in the San Francisco Bay area.

    ENT Assessment

    • If you have tried home remedies and are not satisfied with the removal of wax, or if you have had ear diseases or problems in the past, seeing an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor is the best strategy to quickly (and safely) remove ear wax. An ENT will be able to examine your ears and determine whether the excess wax is just a burden, or is a sign of a more serious problem. Although removal techniques vary, many ENT doctors will use a safe suctioning technique that will remove your ear wax quickly, says Dr. Hoffman. If your ear wax problem is not too serious, most doctors will suggest that you supplement office visits with home remedies.

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