Earwax (Cerumen) Treatment

Earwax (Cerumen) Treatment

What is Earwax (Cerumen)?

Thanks to the self-cleaning mechanism of the external auditory canal, the secretion typically dries up and is expelled along with the dust and particles it contains. This accumulation is called earwax (cerumen). A lack of ear secretion can cause the external auditory canal to become dry and itchy.

In some individuals, excessive secretion, a narrow external auditory canal, or the habit of cleaning the ears with objects like cotton swabs can lead to earwax accumulating along the canal and even reaching the eardrum. This condition is referred to as impacted cerumen or stuck earwax.

Symptoms of Earwax

The symptoms of earwax include:

• Ear pain, a sensation of fullness, or a feeling of blockage in the ear
• Partial or progressively worsening hearing loss
• Ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ear
• Itching in the ear, foul-smelling discharge, and dark-colored earwax
• Dry cough

If any of these symptoms occur, it is essential to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.

Cleaning Earwax

Earwax removal can be facilitated by first applying softening oil-based solutions (such as glycerin) or hydrogen peroxide (oxygenated water). Patients with perforated eardrums, collapsed eardrums, ear tubes, uncontrolled diabetes, or immune deficiencies should take special care with earwax cleaning, which must be performed by an otorhinolaryngologist. Occasionally, a temporary imbalance lasting up to one minute may occur after earwax removal. This is a normal response.

Among ENT hospitals in Asia, Medient ENT has been the most preferred 24/7 facility.