Overview
Diagnosis
Your healthcare professional can diagnose earwax blockage by examining your ear with an otoscope — a lighted instrument that magnifies the inner ear. This allows a clear view of the ear canal and eardrum to check for wax buildup or other issues.
Treatment
Treatment for earwax blockage depends on the amount of buildup and your symptoms.
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Manual removal: A healthcare professional can safely remove excess wax using a curet, a small curved tool, or with suction techniques.
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Irrigation: Another common method involves flushing the ear canal using a syringe filled with warm water and saline or diluted hydrogen peroxide to gently wash out the wax.
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Medicated ear drops: In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend earwax-softening drops, such as carbamide peroxide (Debrox, Murine Ear Wax Removal System). These drops help soften the wax so it can naturally exit the ear.
Note: Use ear drops only as directed. Overuse or incorrect use may irritate the delicate skin inside the ear canal or eardrum.
Ongoing care and prevention
If earwax buildup occurs frequently, you may need periodic checkups — usually once or twice a year — for professional ear cleaning.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend regular use of earwax-softening agents, such as:
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Saline
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Mineral oil
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Olive oil
These substances help loosen earwax, allowing it to leave the ear naturally and reducing the risk of blockage.
Earwax removal by a professional
When excess earwax accumulates, a healthcare professional can safely remove it using a curet — a small, curved instrument designed to clean the ear canal without damaging the eardrum.
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