Not a few people use cotton bud to clean the ears. Though, the use of cotton bud This can actually cause dirt to get deeper into the ear. So, how to clean the right ear?
Earwax or cerumen is generally a soft lump that is produced naturally from the glands oil in the ear canal. However, cerumen is not just wax in the ear.
This dirt actually serves to protect the ear, catch dust, inhibit the growth of germs, and keep water from entering the ear.
Earwax actually will not cause a problem, if the amount is not excessive.
Too much earwax can clog the ear, causing pain and hearing loss.
This condition is called cerumen prop and needs to be cleaned immediately. However, if the ear cleaning is done in the wrong way, it will result in more dirt being pushed into the ear.
Various Health Problems When Ears Are Dirty
Earwax that accumulates needs to be handled properly. Otherwise, it can cause several health problems, such as:
- Ears itchy
- Ear pain that doesn't go away
- Hearing disorders
- Ears ringing
- External ear canal infection or otitis externa
- Middle ear infection
- The formation of a hole in the eardrum or a ruptured eardrum
Avoid using objects that can actually harm the ears. Instead of being successfully expelled, earwax is at risk of further settling in the ear canal and causing inflammation.
Various Ways to Clean Ears
To stay safe when cleaning earwax that has accumulated, there are several ways to clean your ears, including:
The use of medicine t et ice ear
Using over-the-counter ear drops at pharmacies or drugstores can be one way to clean earwax. This medicine can soften the clot, making it easier for stool to pass.
For 2–3 days after using the earwax softener, tilt your head and apply warm water to the affected ear canal, then tilt your head to the other side to remove the earwax. Drain the water from the ear canal, then dry it gently with a towel.
You may need to repeat this process several times until all the earwax is removed. However, do not use this method if you have an ear infection or have had ear surgery.
This method also risks making softened earwax go deeper into the ear canal. Therefore, if the earwax does not decrease, immediately get your ear checked by a doctor.
Medical treatment
If the earwax has accumulated and is difficult to remove you can go to the doctor. Usually, the doctor will use a special tool to remove earwax or use a suction device (suction).
Another step that a doctor may recommend is an ear irrigation procedure. This procedure is done by running warm water to remove ear wax.
If the buildup of earwax continues to recur, the doctor may recommend a way to clean the ear using drugs, such as carbamide peroxide, which must be used as directed by the doctor.
Do not hesitate to consult a doctor, especially if you experience ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness, itching, discharge or blood from the ear, and an unpleasant odor from the ear.