Ear wax removal is a simple procedure but if performed incorrectly can have drastic effects on your hearing in the short and long term.

The procedure in which ear wax is removed plays an important role in keeping bacteria and viruses at bay. The medical terminology for ear wax is known as Cerumen. Ear wax or Cerumen is a wax like, yellow substance that helps trap viruses and bacteria that try and invade the ear thereby moving any trapped substances or particles away from the tympanic membrane.
Cerumen also acts as insect repellant thereby preventing insects from lodging themselves in the ear canal.

Cerumen is commonly found and produced by glands which line the canal leading from the Pinna (external portion of the ear) to the tympanic membrane.

Ears and Ear Wax

Ear wax can cause blockage and can at times seem to be a nuisance to some individuals, but there is a valid reasoning behind us having ear wax.

1. Dryness and itchiness which is caused by dry skin is prevented by ear wax as this substance has a water retention function.
2. Crumen also has specialized chemicals in it that kill and trap bacteria and infections that can do harm to the ear and ones hearing should they reach the inner portions of the ear.
3. When wind and water come into contact with the ear, foreign substances and organisms seem to find their way into our ears. The ear wax traps these organisms and kills the foreign organisms with innate chemicals. It is these chemicals that leave a bitter taste in ones mouth if ear wax is tasted.

The glands that produce the secretion of ear wax are located in the outer ear region of the ear. The ear wax secreted will coat the outer part of the ear canal so that no foreign organisms can make contact with the cochlea or delicate parts of the ear.

A blockage can also be caused in the Eustachian tube when one has a sinus infection it can spread via the Eustachian towards the ear creating an ear infection with a lot of discomfort.

Ear Wax Removal

Ear blockage can be caused by various factors and requires proper examination by an ENT or GP. As cases are all different in nature, various treatment methods may be needed.

Ear wax can cause blockage which requires precision treatment to over come the condition:

1. A Cotton bud or swab can be used to unblock the ears; however this may also cause damage to internal structures if not performed correctly and has a tendency of pushing ear wax further into the ear canal.
2. In serious cases a qualified ENT should be consulted. When foreign objects are wedge into the ears by small children, irrigations or vacuum procedures are used to unblock the ears canals.
3. Syringes with warm saline solutions are also known to be used to draw out excess wax from the ear canal. The head however needs to be held in a specific position to effectively remove ear wax.
4. Ear Candling is a safe method as well, but was found not to be effective in removing the wax build up, which can be causing pressure and ear infections.
5. A vacuum type of machine may be used to dislodge and remove ear wax. This technique can also be performed at home.

A strong light should always be used so that the ENT can have a proper view of the situation at hand. 

Consequences of incorrect ear wax removal:

Blocked and improper ear wax removal of the ear can result in:

1. Temporary hearing loss
2. Perforated tympanic membrane
3. Tinnitus
4. Infection to the external ear canal
5. Inflammation of the external ear canal
6. Vertigo
7. Menier’s Disease

Cleaning Ear Wax safely at home

Ear syringes are self help based and are FDA approved. Caution should however be practiced when using this method. Young or old generations can use the ear syringes in the comfort of their own homes. It has however been recommended that an ENT of GP perform the ear wax removal with the ear syringe to prevent any damage from occurring.
Different oils such as olive oil are also useful in treat ear blockage and removing excess wax.