Ear Wax

Ear wax (also called cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It helps to:

• Clean and protect the ear
• Trap dust, dirt, and bacteria
• Prevent irritation and infection
  

Most of the time, ear wax moves to the ear opening on its own and falls out without you noticing.

Sometimes ear wax builds up and becomes impacted. This can happen if:

• You produce a lot of wax
• You wear hearing aids or earplugs regularly
• You use cotton buds, which can push wax further in
  

• Hearing loss or muffled hearing
• Fullness or pressure in the ear
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing)
• Earache
• Itchiness
• Dizziness (rare)
  

• Don’t use cotton buds – they push wax deeper and can damage your ear
• Don’t insert any objects into your ear
• Avoid ear candles – they are not effective and can be dangerous
  

EAR DROPS (FIRST LINE TREATMENT)

Use over-the-counter drops to soften wax, such as:

• Olive oil
• Almond oil (if no nut allergy)
• Hydrogen peroxide-based drops (e.g. Otex)

Use 2–3 drops in the affected ear once or twice daily for up to 7 days. Lie on your side when applying, and stay in that position for a few minutes.

MICROSUCTION (If drops don't help)

If wax remains impacted after using drops:

• Microsuction: a safe, low-pressure vacuum removes the wax under direct vision
  

• Your hearing doesn’t improve after using drops
• You have pain, discharge, or signs of infection
• You’re unsure if symptoms are due to ear wax
  

• Don’t clean your ears with cotton buds
• Use ear drops occasionally if you’re prone to buildup
• Speak to a healthcare provider if you wear hearing aids and have regular wax issues