Earwax build up can lead to:

• Earache

• Ear infection

• Itchiness

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• A feeling of fullness in the ear

• Dizziness

• Hearing Aid breakdowns

Attempting to remove the wax yourself at home using Q-tips, bobby pins, or whatever else; is not safe and can actually make the issue even worse. You most likely will push the wax deeper in your ear canal making it more difficult and painful to remove, but you could also puncture your eardrum or cut your ear canal which could lead to infection.

Ear Candling is another method believed by some to remove earwax, however, there is no scientific basis for ear candling. It is actually a pretty unsafe way to remove wax. The FDA has not approved ear candles for any medical use. It has actually sent warnings to manufacturers and stopped the import of candles. Click here to learn more.

Wax Softening Drops - If you believe you have earwax build up in your ear canals, wax softening drops will soften the wax making it easier to remove. Mineral oil, baby oil, peroxide, Debrox, and other commercially available wax softening agents can be used.

Water Irrigation - Water is used to flush the wax out of the ear canal. This should only be completed at home if you are certain there are no holes in your eardrums, have someone to help, and in a seated position (may become dizzy). However, at Back Mountain Hearing Care your audiologist will use water irrigation if needed to remove the earwax.

Manual Wax Removal - This should never be attempted at home and should only be performed by someone trained in wax removal. Your audiologist will use wax removal tools (curette) to remove the earwax.