How to Safely Clean Your Ears

Many products are advertised for ear cleaning - from cotton swabs to ear candles. But, the ears actually have built-in systems for cleaning themselves. Therefore, the best way to ensure your ear canals are healthy and functioning properly is to not interfere with the natural processes. See a doctor if you notice ear pain, ear fullness, or hearing changes, though.

LET WAX DO ITS JOB

Earwax, or cerumen, plays a vital role in the proper functioning of the ear. Along with moisturizing the ear canal and keeping it from becoming too dry, wax also traps airborne dirt and dust. Wax even intercepts harmful bacteria and helps to maintain a proper pH balance in the ear canal. Some degree of ear wax is normal and should not be removed from your ears unless it becomes excessive.

SEE A DOCTOR FOR CERUMINOSIS

Some people suffer from a buildup of ear wax that leads to a condition called ceruminosis. When this happens, patients can develop ear infections and experience hearing loss, ear pain, and tinnitus. This condition can sometimes be treated by OTC eardrops but often needs to be managed by a health care professional. If you think you have excessive ear wax have your ears examined by a doctor, as the symptoms of this kind of wax buildup are the same as other conditions. Hearing aid wearers are more likely to develop a buildup of cerumen.

STICK TO THE OUTSIDE OF YOUR EAR

While you should never stick anything inside your ear, you can safely clean the outside of the ear as needed. Use a warm, damp washcloth to wipe away wax gently. You can also use cotton swabs on the outside of the ear, but a washcloth is best.

If you think you are suffering from wax buildup symptoms or are experiencing any changes in your hearing, contact us for an appointment. You can also find more helpful information about hearing health on our blog and our Roanoke and Crozet Facebook pages!