Mastering Ear Hygiene: A Step-by-Step Guide to Safe Earwax Removal at Home
Doctor explains how to safely remove earwax at home using the MediGrade Earwax Removal Syringe Kit. Learn the step-by-step process, potential side effects, and who should avoid this procedure for optimal ear health.
Disclaimer
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Doctor O'Donovan Medical Education Limited can not provide individual advice. Never ignore professional medical advice from your own health provider because of something you have read or watched here. Educational resources created by Doctor O'Donovan Medical Education Limited are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Topic Breakdown
In the video, we delve into an often overlooked yet essential aspect of personal hygiene: earwax removal. Earwax, though natural and generally self-clearing, can sometimes accumulate excessively, leading to reduced hearing, earache, or even tinnitus—a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears. For some, the appearance of earwax can also be a source of self-consciousness. If you find yourself in such a situation, this guide will walk you through the process of safely removing earwax at home using the MediGrade Earwax Removal Syringe Kit.
Before we begin, it’s crucial to understand that earwax is typically self-regulating. However, when it forms build-ups, it can cause discomfort and other issues. The NHS UK recommends an initial step of applying two to three drops of medical-grade olive oil in your ear three to four times a day for three to five days. This softens the earwax, making it easier to remove. You can find a link to purchase medical-grade olive oil in the description below the video.
For optimal results, lie on your side when applying the olive oil, allowing it to work its way through the ear canal. You might find it easier if someone assists you in this step. Over the course of about two weeks, you should notice lumps of earwax falling out, particularly at night when you're lying down.
Once you’ve softened the earwax over three to five days, it’s time to proceed with the earwax removal process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. **Boil Water and Cool It**: Boil some water and let it cool to room temperature. Using hot or cold water can cause dizziness or faintness due to the caloric effect.
2. **Read the Information Leaflet**: Before starting, read the full information leaflet inside the MediGrade Earwax Removal Syringe Kit box. This ensures you understand the procedure and any precautions.
3. **Prepare the Syringe**: Take the kit out of the box and attach one of the Luer-locking quad stream tips to the syringe by twisting it clockwise until it’s tight. These tips direct four streams of water into the ear canal walls, avoiding direct pressure on the eardrum.
4. **Fill the Syringe**: Fill the syringe with the room-temperature water you boiled earlier.
5. **Position Yourself**: Sit down to avoid dizziness, and place a water basin under your ear to catch any runoff, or sit next to a sink.
6. **Insert the Quad Tip**: Tilt your head slightly and insert the quad tip into the ear being cleaned. The tips are designed to prevent contact with the eardrum and allow water to escape, avoiding pressure buildup.
7. **Begin the Washout**: Slowly depress the plunger to start the washout. Do this gently to avoid perforating the eardrum. You may feel pressure, but it should not be painful. If you experience any pain, stop immediately and consult a doctor.
8. **Drain Excess Water**: After the first round of washout, tilt your head to let any excess water drain out. You can repeat the process if necessary.
It’s important to note that large earwax blockages might not loosen immediately and may require multiple attempts. In cases of severe blockages, professional removal using micro-suction may be necessary.
**Who Should Avoid This Procedure?**
- Those with very sensitive ears.
- Individuals currently using ear medication.
- If you have or suspect a hole in your eardrum.
- Anyone experiencing ear pain, infection, bleeding, or discharge.
- Those who’ve recently had ear surgery or have a cleft palate, even if repaired.
- If any of the equipment is broken or dirty.
If you're uncertain about any of these conditions, consult your healthcare provider first. Remember, this guide is not intended as individual clinical advice, and the equipment used is not classified as a medical device.
**Potential Side Effects**
While earwax removal is common, potential side effects include:
- Risk of ear infection due to water introduction.
- Small risk of a perforated eardrum.
- Dizziness and potential temporary hearing loss.
For a full list of side effects, refer to the information leaflet inside the kit.
For more details on the products used in this video, including where to purchase them, please check the description box. There, you'll find useful links and resources about earwax blockages.
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