Dr Bryan Betty: Treating earwax – a really common and really annoying issue

What is earwax?   Earwax: a natural substance produced in the ear canal.   It contains oils, dead skin cells, and tiny particles.   Earwax protects the ear: traps dust, germs, and keeps the skin moist.   It's naturally self-cleaning: wax usually moves out on its own.   Earwax is normal – it does not mean your ears are dirty!    Why does earwax sometimes cause problems?   When too much wax builds up, it can become hard and impact.   Some people are more prone due to narrow ear canals, excess hair, or hearing aids   Cotton buds push wax deeper into the ear and irritate and damage the ear canal – do not use them.    How do we know if we have an earwax problem?   A blocked or full feeling in the ear or hearing being muffled or reduced.   Sometimes it can cause ringing (tinnitus), dizziness, or slight discomfort.   Remember: a blocked ear isn't always wax, infection can cause similar symptoms.     How do we treat earwax?   Talk to your doctor or nurse if your ear feels blocked, so they can examine the ear canal.   Ear drops can soften the wax, allowing it to come out naturally. Olive oil often used.     If it doesn't clear, your doctor or nurse can remove using ear suction or irrigation.   Make sure you see your doctor for severe pain, discharge, bleeding, sudden hearing loss, or persistent dizziness. Remember: earwax is normal, it protects the ear, we can’t prevent it, and never use cotton buds in the ear!    LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.