Customer question:
What is the best ear cleaner? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Choosing the best ear-cleaning device depends mainly on your needs and preferences. Remember that a certain amount of earwax is average and has a protective function for the ear.
The goal is not to remove all earwax but to ensure it does not build up excessively.
Here are some popular types of ear cleaners:
- cotton sticks
- ear drops
- ear syringe
- earwax removal kits
- ear vacuum
- micro suction
How can we clean our ears at home?
Care should be taken when cleaning ears at home, as improper techniques can push earwax further into the ear canal, causing damage or increasing the risk of infection. If you experience ear pain, discharge, hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, or excessive earwax build-up, consult your doctor.
Here are safe ways to clean your ears at home:
Cleaning the outer ear
Use a toilet or cleaning tissue to clean the outer part of the ears. This will help remove any dirt and wax that naturally migrated from the ear canal. Do not insert anything into the ear canal.
Ear drops or earwax softeners
Over-the-counter ear drops or hydrogen peroxide solutions can help soften earwax. Put a few drops in your ear, wait a few minutes, and then tilt your head to the side to let the solution and earwax drain. Follow label directions and avoid overuse.
Physiological solution
You can use saline solution to rinse your ears. After putting a few drops in the ear, wait a short time, then tilt your head to let the solution drain out. Ensure the solution and tools are clean to prevent bacteria from entering the ear.
Ear syringe
After using ear care drops or saline to soften the wax, use a syringe filled with warm water to rinse the ear gently. Tilt your head to allow the water to flow into the ear canal, then tilt your head in the opposite direction to allow the water and melted wax to flow. Make sure the syringe is clean. Apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the ear, and always use warm (not hot) water to prevent dizziness.
Warnings!
Do not use cotton swabs in the ear canal. They can push ear wax further into the ear, potentially damaging the eardrum. Avoid using ear suppositories. They are ineffective and can cause injury. Do not insert sharp or pointed objects into the ear. Your ears have a natural mechanism for removing earwax. Chewing and jaw movements help push the old earwax out of the ear canal and into the ear opening, where it eventually dries and falls out.
Can ear drops also be bought in a pharmacy?
Yes, ear drops can be bought in pharmacies. They are available over the counter and with a prescription, depending on the type and purpose of the drops.
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