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Among the most common reasons for short-term hearing loss is a build up of ear wax, which obstructs the ear canal and disrupts hearing. Individuals who have experienced this, and experienced a reduced ability to hear, clearly want to know how to clean their ears to avoid it. Although this is a normal wish, it is vital that you understand how to clean your ears safely, without causing hearing or tissue damage.
To emphasize health and safety when cleaning your ears, we will start with what not to do. One important thing to avoid is attempting to remove ear wax by inserting cotton swaps, Q-tips or any actual object into your ears; this may cause the ear wax to become compacted and worsen the situation. Under no circumstances, use any product that sprays water under pressure. The pressurized water stream can perforate your eardrum. Furthermore, if you know that you have a ruptured eardrum or believe that you have an ear infection, do not try to clean your ears at home, and see a specialist instead. Signs indicating a possible infection or punctured ear drum include fluid draining from the ears, vomiting or diarrhea, fever and ear pain.
Cleaning your ears safely at home is possible with syringe or bulb and a rinse solution from the drug store. You can purchase a carbamide peroxide solution at the drug store, or make your own solution by combining equal measures of mineral oil, glycerin and 3%-4%.
To use the carbamide peroxide solution, slowly squeeze the solution into the ear with the syringe or bulb. It works best to lay on your side and have a towel readily available to catch drips. Try to avoid touching the ear with the bulb or syringe if possible. Leave the solution in each ear for a couple minutes giving it time to work .
After the ear wax has been loosened and softened by the solution, wash each ear again with lukewarm water, and then dry the outer ears gently with a hand towel. You can repeat this process twice per day for 2 to 3 days if your ears still feel obstructed. If the problems still persist, see your a hearing specialist or audiologist.
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