Ear Care: Do-It-Yourself Wax Removal (2/2)

Experts at N.I.H., the National Institutes of Health, suggest some ways to treat excessive" class="hjdict" word="excessive" target=_blank>excessive earwax yourself. They say the wax can be softened with mineral oil, glycerin or ear drops. They say hydrogen" class="hjdict" word="hydrogen" target=_blank>hydrogenperoxide or carbamide peroxide may also help.

Another way to remove wax is known as irrigation. With the head upright, take hold of the outer part of the ear. Gently pull upward to straighten the ear canal. Use a syringe device to gently direct water against the wall of the ear canal. Then turn the head to the side to let the water out.

The experts at N.I.H. say you may have to repeat this process a few times. Use water that is body temperature. If the water is cooler or warmer, it could make you feel dizzy. Never try irrigation if the eardrum is broken. It could lead to infection and other problems.

After the earwax is gone, gently dry the ear. But if irrigation fails, the best thing to do is to go to a health care provider for professional assistance.