10 frequently asked questions (FAQs) on earwax answered

Are ear candles safe to use? Is ear wax normal? + 8 more common queries answered by an ENT expert.

By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | | Updated: November 7, 2016 2:49 pm

Is earwax normal? — This is the first and most common question we all have when it comes to earwax. How often you should clean the earwax? Is earwax a sign of disease? When does it indicate a medical emergency? And hence, to help you out with a better understanding about earwax and what is normal, our expert Dr Ashim Desai, Senior Consultant ENT, Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Mumbai answers some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) on earwax and cleaning the ears. Also read about 6 amazing facts on earwax we bet you didn’t know.

1. How often should one clean the ears?

One should clean their ears when there is an excessive buildup of earwax. If one cleans their ears too often (twice a week or daily) it could lead to excessive dryness and irritation in the ear canal.

2. What is the right way to clean it?

The best way to clean the ear canal is by cleaning the outer portion of the ear with a soft cloth. Additionally, the ear canal can be cleaned with the use of baby oil, mineral oil or commercial ear drops. Here’s more on earwax removal – dos and don’ts you should know about.

3. When does it indicate an emergency?

If one has excessive pain or irritation in the ears or if you feel difficulty in hearing or loss of hearing, or buzzing sound in the ears due to excessive sensitivity, it is a sign you have to consult an ENT specialist at the earliest. Also read about 8 causes of ear pain everyone should know about.

4. Is earwax normal?

Yes, earwax is perfectly normal and is also healthy in less amount as it acts as a self-cleaning agent in the ear and also has lubricating and antibacterial properties.

5. How should one not clean earwax?

The worst but most common method used to clean earwax is by inserting objects into the ear. Sharp objects like keys and pens can injure the ear and can puncture the ear drum. Additionally, cotton swabs can cause wax blockage as they tend to push the wax further into the ear. This can cause certain levels of deafness, if not done properly. Hence, avoid following these tricks to clean the ear. Here are 10 things you must NEVER put in your ears.

6. Does earwax indicate any health problem?

No, earwax does not indicate any health problems but is a sign of a healthy ear. But if you experience wax blockage quite frequently or any oils and ear drops are not helping you to deal with it, then consult a doctor to know the cause and get treated. Did you know that difficulty while swallowing could indicate ear infection?

7. How can I prevent the excessive buildup of wax?

One cannot stop the process of wax buildup, but frequent cleaning accelerates the process of wax formation and also causes irritation of the ear canal. Hence, the only way to prevent it is clean at regular intervals but not too frequently to avoid excessive earwax formation.

8. Does improper cleaning of earwax cause health problems?

Use of inappropriate cleaning methods of the earwax can damage the ear canal. Sudden pain & swelling, loss of hearing and ear drum perforation can happen which will result in hearing loss and pain.

9. Are ear candles safe to use?

It is a common belief that use of ear candles to clean the ear creates a vacuum and hence, helps in cleaning earwax. However, this is not true as it is not a safe practice to use ear candles as it can lead to loss of hearing. Here’s more on things you should NEVER do to your ears!

10. Do we have to clean all the earwax?

Not necessarily as the ear canal is self-cleaning and, only excessive wax buildup needs to be removed with the use of external products. The excess residue can be removed with the help of wax dissolving ear drops available in the market.

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Published: October 6, 2016 4:06 pm | Updated:November 7, 2016 2:49 pm

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